Otterchat (otterchan.net) is a niche, single-topic imageboard (often called a “monoboard”) dedicated entirely to otters. It is a “comfy” and wholesome community that rejects the aggression of larger boards in favor of sharing otter photos, facts, and art.
1. Key Dates and Registration
- Launch: The site launched in February 2021. The earliest threads and directory listings date its creation to roughly February 23, 2021.
- Domain Info: The domain
otterchan.netwas likely registered shortly before its launch in early 2021. - Software: Historically, the site runs on Wakaba (a classic Perl-based imageboard script). However, the administrator has been actively developing a custom modern replacement called “nobo” (“new otter board”) to update the aging infrastructure.
2. What is the site?
Otterchan (titled Otterchat on the main page) is a place for “otter lovers dedicated to the enjoyment of otters.”
- Single-Board Format: Unlike most imageboards that have multiple sections (like
/b/or/v/), Otterchan consists of a single main feed where all discussion takes place. - Content: Threads typically revolve around “Daily Otter” photos, “Ottercine” (community movie nights/streams), otter conservation news, and “Anime Otters” (art).
- Culture: The community is small and tightly knit, using custom otter-themed emotes (like
:dance:,:comfy:, and:marine:) and maintaining a strict “no politics, no drama” atmosphere. It is part of the “Boutique Chan” or “Slow Web” sphere.
3. What does the name mean?
- Otter: The animal the site is dedicated to.
- Chan: The standard suffix for imageboards.
- Otterchan: Effectively translates to “The Otter Imageboard.”
Image from Jan 2026
