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Description
The dobhar-chu (Megalutra Gravidont) is an Irish ambush predator known for its powerful bite. The second largest species of otter in the world, typically reaching a length of 150 to 170cm. Historically, there were two distinct populations of dobhar-chu, one endemic to Ireland, and another, smaller subspecies hailing from Scotland and northern England. The second population has since gone extinct, with the last confirmed individual dying in captivity in 1897.

It is believed that Megalutra split from their shared ancestors with Lutra Lutra roughly 16,000 years ago, as Doggerland was beginning its decent into the North Sea. Starting with a population of rat hunting otters who slowly diverged from their kin, gaining muscle mass around the head and shoulders, and losing some mobility in their legs.

Description
The dobhar-chu (Megalutra Gravidont) is an Irish ambush predator known for its powerful bite. The second largest species of otter in the world, typically reaching a length of 150 to 170cm. Historically, there were two distinct populations of dobhar-chu, one endemic to Ireland, and another, smaller subspecies hailing from Scotland and northern England. The second population has since gone extinct, with the last confirmed individual dying in captivity in 1897.

It is believed that Megalutra split from their shared ancestors with Lutra Lutra roughly 16,000 years ago, as Doggerland was beginning its decent into the North Sea. Starting with a population of rat hunting otters who slowly diverged from their kin, gaining muscle mass around the head and shoulders, and losing some mobility in their legs.