Chapter 6


Mijbil the Otter


1. What things does Mij do which tell you that he is an intelligent, friendly and fun-loving animal who needs love?

Answer: Mij shows his intelligence by learning to open the tap all by himself and playing smartly with toys like a rubber ball and marbles. He proves he is friendly when he begins to follow Gavin without a lead and sleeps on his bed. Mij is clearly fun-loving as he enjoys splashing in water, playing with marbles, and juggling them on his belly. His actions also show that he needs love and companionship, especially when he becomes attached to the narrator and likes to stay close to him.


2. What are some of the things we come to know about otters from this text?

Answer: From the text, we learn that:

  • Otters love water and enjoy playing in it.

  • They are very active, playful, and curious.

  • Otters can be trained to recognize their names and respond.

  • They are intelligent and can learn new skills.

  • Otters use their paws skillfully and enjoy playing with small objects.

3. Why is Mij's species now known to the world as Maxwell's otter?

Answer: Mij belonged to a previously unknown species of otter. When scientists studied him, they identified his kind as a new race. To honor Gavin Maxwell, who first brought attention to this species, zoologists named it Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli, which is commonly referred to as Maxwell's otter.

1. How was Mij to be transported to England?

Answer: Mij was to be transported to England by air. He had to be carried in a box placed under the seat of the airplane as per airline rules.

2. What did Mij do to the box?

Answer: Mij tore open a part of the box and made a hole in the side. He tried to escape and caused quite a mess inside the box, even hurting himself slightly.

3. Why did Maxwell put the otter back in the box? How do you think he felt when he did this?

Answer: Maxwell put Mij back in the box because it was required by the airline for the pet to travel safely. He must have felt sad, helpless, and guilty, knowing that Mij was uncomfortable and distressed, but he had no other option.

4. Why does Maxwell say the airhostess was "the very queen of her kind"?

Answer: Maxwell calls the airhostess "the very queen of her kind" because she was extremely kind, understanding, and helpful. She allowed Maxwell to take Mij out of the box and let him sit on his lap during the flight, which made the journey easier for both.

5. What happened when the box was opened?

Answer: When the box was opened, Mij jumped out and disappeared down the aircraft, causing panic among the passengers. People were startled, and some even stood on their seats in fear. After a while, Mij was finally found and brought back.