Mijbil the Otter

After his dog Jonnie died, Maxwell decided to keep an otter as a pet, finding life without a pet lonely. This decision led to his unique bond with Mijbil.

Mijbil was given to Maxwell by two Arabs in a sack, marking the beginning of Maxwell's otter fixation and a new phase in his life.

Initially, Mijbil was aloof and indifferent, choosing to sleep far from Maxwell. This changed as he became more comfortable and interactive.

Mijbil exhibited a characteristic otter behavior of loving water, playing wildly in it, and ensuring every drop was in motion, showing his natural instincts.

Mijbil demonstrated intelligence by learning to turn on the tap to play with water, though sometimes he turned it the wrong way out of frustration.

Mijbil spent hours playing with toys like rubber balls and marbles, inventing games that showcased his playful and intelligent nature.

Transporting Mijbil involved booking a flight to Paris first, as British airlines wouldn't fly animals, highlighting the difficulties in pet transportation.

Mijbil tore the lining of his transport box, causing a bloody mess, showing his distress and the challenges of traveling with wild animals.

Mijbil escaped on the plane, causing chaos and fear among passengers, illustrating the unpredictability of keeping wild animals as pets.

Despite the chaos, Mijbil showed affection by nuzzling Maxwell's face, demonstrating their strong bond.

In London, Mijbil adapted to city life, playing with toys and developing habits like galloping along a wall, showing his adaptability.

Londoners couldn't recognize Mijbil as an otter, guessing he was anything from a baby seal to a hippo, highlighting people's unfamiliarity with otters.

Mijbil was identified as a previously unknown otter species, later named Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli, or Maxwell's otter, after his owner.

Mijbil developed habits like touching every seventh railing, similar to children's rituals, showing his need for routine and play.

Maxwell praised the airhostess for her kindness and understanding during Mijbil's escape, calling her 'the very queen of her kind.'

The story showcases the deep bond between Maxwell and Mijbil, transcending the usual pet-owner relationship, filled with love and mutual respect.

The chapter subtly questions the ethics of keeping wild animals like otters as pets, through the challenges and adaptations Mijbil undergoes.

Mijbil brought joy, companionship, and a sense of adventure to Maxwell's life, changing his perspective on pets and wildlife.

The story emphasizes the responsibility of pet ownership, highlighting the need to understand and cater to the animal's natural behaviors and needs.

Mijbil's story leaves a lasting impression on readers about the beauty and challenges of interspecies friendships and the wonders of the natural world.