Fear of otters (lutraphobia)

Lutraphobia is a fear of otters. For most people otters seem playful and harmless, which can make this fear feel hard to explain, but it might show up as avoiding riverside walks, wildlife parks or nature programmes.

About this phobia

The name links to Lutra, the Latin word for otter, still used in the scientific name of the Eurasian otter. There is little clinical evidence behind the term and it appears mainly on lists of phobias. It fits within the broader fear of animals, known as zoophobia.

What it feels like

• Unease at riverbanks or coasts where otters live
• Avoiding zoos, aquariums or wildlife centres
• A jolt of fear at photos or videos of otters

Explore more unusual fears in the rare phobias A to Z, or browse the common phobias.

Common questions

Are otters dangerous?

Wild otters in the UK are shy and usually keep well away from people. Like any wild animal they can bite if cornered, so watching from a distance makes sense. A phobia, though, tends to go well beyond the real level of risk.

How can you help?

I use hypnotherapy and NLP to change how your mind responds to the thing you fear, so the old alarm stops going off. Sessions are one to one over Zoom, and you get a recording of the hypnosis to listen to afterwards.

How many sessions will I need?

Many clients notice a real difference after one 90 minute session. If the fear goes back a long way, three sessions gives us room to make the change stick.

Ready to start?

Book a £49 consultation call and we’ll talk through your fear, or take the free suitability test first.

See all session options and prices