What are some of the things we come to know about otters from this text?
From the text, we learn that otters belong to a small group of animals called Mustellines, which also includes animals like the badger, mongoose, and weasel. We also discover that Mijbil's species was previously unknown to science and was later christened by zoologists as Maxwell's otter.
Regarding their behaviour, otters can initially be aloof and indifferent, but they soon become friendly and develop a keen interest in their surroundings. They absolutely love water, going wild with joy by plunging and rolling in it.
Finally, owning an otter creates a thraldom or fixation for the owner. Also, common people easily mistake them for other animals like baby seals, walruses, or hippos because they cannot recognize them.
Explanation
The question asks for facts about otters gathered strictly from the provided text. The context gives three main areas of information: scientific classification (Mustellines, previously unknown race, Maxwell's otter), behavioral traits (aloof initially, then friendly and curious, extreme love for water), and human interaction (creates a fixation for owners, often misidentified by the public). The answer consolidates these points into a structured, exam-ready response suitable for 3 marks.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify the scientific classification of otters from the text (Mustellines group, previously unknown race named Maxwell's otter).
Step 2: Note the behavioral traits of otters mentioned in the text (initially aloof, then friendly, curious, and extremely joyful in water).
Step 3: Extract information regarding human interaction with otters (causes a thraldom/fixation for owners, often misidentified by the general public).