“The Giant Otter is the biggest of the otter family, very sociable and affectionate and active during daylight hours, with family groups typically supporting up to ten members”

Diane McTurk is an inspirational woman. At the age of 74 she is not only responsible for the management of a 320 square kilometre cattle ranch, but has also become famous for her successes with her real passion in life: the rehabilitation of rescued, orphaned giant otter pups. 

She goes in search of one otter who hasn’t been seen for a year. Having to face caiman, predatory fish and territorial wild otters, what are the chances of survival?  This is Mission: Giant Otter.

Giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis) are found throughout the major river systems of South America, but this unique documentary homes in on the Rupununi River in Guyana. Here they share the waterways with caiman, anaconda and piranha.
They are charismatic, lovable predators. Now endangered, crucial work is needed to protect the species and Diane’s work is fundamental to their survival. Some people are more dedicated than others, and Diane McTurk is one of them.

This film is a portrayal of this captivating species and the amazing woman who dedicates her life to protecting them from their only enemy, humans. It follows Diane on just another day in her calling for the past 20 years: rescuing orphaned otter pups, rearing them herself and reintroducing them back into the wild.

This DVD is accompanied by a beautifully illustrated 24-page hardback reference book. Watch the close-up wildlife film and at the same time read the book to learn about habitats, diet, life cycle and more. The book is packed with intriguing facts, illustrations, photography and a 'Test your knowledge' quiz.

English narration by Matthew Morgan
Produced by Phil Coles (2004)
As seen on the National Geographic Channel and Animal Planet.

 To watch a pre-view of this DVD please visit YouTube or watch it at the bottom of this page