KOTA KINABALU – Visitors at the Menumbok jetty on Saturday had a scare when a scuffle broke out between a group of otters.
The otters, about five to six, appeared to be on a rampage and caused fear to those waiting at the jetty, with some jumping atop tables, running away, and one throwing a mobile rubbish bin to avoid getting injured.
The incident happened at 5.30pm and appeared unprovoked at the jetty, which linked mainland Sabah to the Labuan island.
"I think it's a territorial fight between the otters or someone may have provoked the poor animals," a health official stationed at the jetty told The Vibes.
Videos of the group of otters on a rampage and chasing people at the jetty have been shared on Facebook last night.
Sabah Wildlife Department veterinary chief Dr Sen Nathan has identified the otters as Asian small-clawed otter or Aonyx Cinereus and like most otters, they are very territorial animals.
"Normally, they move in groups, are very territorial and would help each other when in danger. They can be very aggressive," he said. – The Vibes, May 10, 2021
