[62], The North American river otter is considered a species of least concern according to the IUCN Red List, as it is not currently declining at a rate sufficient for a threat category. 2003). The den typically has many tunnel openings, one of which generally allows the otter to enter and exit the body of water. [34] A 1994 river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed. [20] River otters are omnivorous, eating mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, insects and some small mammals. [16] Each otter pup weighs approximately five ounces. Subject: River Otter Status, Management, and Distribution in the United States: Evidence of Large-Scale Population Increase and Range Expansion, (Optional message may have a maximum of 1000 characters.). We assessed geographic distribution in each state based on a county basis; Alaska does not have county jurisdictions, so we gathered information via a phone interview to assess geographic distribution (Alaska Department of Fish and Game, personal communication). When the pups are about two months old and their coats grow in, their mother introduces them to the water. [23], Aquatic life ties North American river otters almost exclusively to permanent watersheds. Crait, J.R. et al. River otters were reported to be ubiquitous throughout Alaska south of the Brooks Range (Alaska Department of Fish and Game, personal communication). EDITORIAL. Within states that harvested otters, regulations concerning river otter harvest seasons were reviewed and adjusted regularly. When hunting for food in the water, otters can remain submerged for up to eight minutes. Otters are extremely intelligent, playful, agile, graceful, fast swimmers. [32] Fish are the primary component of the North American river otter's diet throughout the year. They use their sensitive whiskers which help them locate prey and catch their prey with their mouth, using their paws to hold on to the prey if needed. [16] Tail lengths range from 30 to 50 centimetres (12 to 20in). Females are approximately one-third smaller than males. ), daces (Rhinichthys spp. The tail makes up approximately 40 percent of the otters total length, which ranges from three to four-and-one-half feet. 2003). We asked each agency expert to report 1) the legal status of river otters in their state, 2) the statewide river otter population trend, 3) the results of reintroduction efforts (if applicable), 4) the population status of river otters since reintroduction efforts, 5) the method(s) of river otter population monitoring, 6) how frequently adjustments are made to harvest regulations (if applicable), 7) and the geographic distribution of river otters in their state. [26], Male North American river otters disperse from such family groups more often than females. The North American river otters are carnivores, they eat mainly aquatic animals such as amphibians, turtles, fish, crayfish, crabs, and other species of invertebrates. [19] An average adult male weighs about 11.3 kilograms (25lb) against the female's average of 8.3 kilograms (18lb). Their gestational period can last anywhere from two months to one year, as otters are capable of delayed implantation. (c) Matt Muir, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). [41], Delayed implantation distinguishes the species from the European otter, which does not do this. 2020. and redhorses (Moxostoma spp. Novak, Mila, James A. Baker, Martyn E. Obbard and Bruce Malloch, editors. Only one state, Utah, had conducted river otter reintroductions since 2010. [34] However, many other studies did not report any findings of North American beaver remains in the scat sampled. In the absence of harvest-dependent data, presenceabsence data (such as track surveys), can indicate population distribution and trajectories (Roberts et al. [32] The North American river otters have also been known to catch and consume moulting American wigeon (Mareca americana) and green-winged teal (Anas crecca). North American river otters are natural swimmers and, with parental supervision, they acquire the skills necessary to swim. Uniting all Americans to ensure wildlife thrive in a rapidly changing world, Inspire a lifelong connection with wildlife and wild places through our children's publications, products, and activities, National Wildlife Federation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. kodiak river otter. It is also possible that we underestimated the geographic extent of the range given that presence is unknown in some counties, particularly in arid regions, and these areas were excluded from our estimate. Researchers also rely on game cams that they set up to catch pictures and videos of otters in the night. Late seasonal breeding of river ot- ters in Yellowstone National Park. Similarly, we estimated that river otters occupied approximately 5,000,550 km2nearly 63% of the land area of the contiguous United Statesand that the potential river otter range was approaching 5,556,200 km2. [33] Every study done on the food habits of the North American river otter has identified varying fish species as being the primary component of its diet. We contacted wildlife management agencies from all states in the contiguous United States during 2016 via email (Figure S1, Supplemental Material), and Alaska via phone, targeting agency personnel that were responsible for river otter management. They have also been known to eat aquatic plants and to prey on other small mammals, such as muskrats or rabbits. Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential geographic distribution in the United States. [15][16] The New World river otters originated from the Old World river otters following a migration across the Bering Land Bridge, which existed off and on between 1.8million and 10,000 years ago. It establishes a burrow close to the water's edge in river, lake, swamp, coastal shoreline, tidal flat, or estuary ecosystems. The dens have entrances underwater so they can be easily accessed from the water. River Otters are good swimmers and divers, able to stay underwater for up to eight minutes. (c) Smithsonian Institution, some rights reserved (CC BY). North American river otters only settle in areas that consist of vegetation, rock piles, and sufficient coverage. [23], Like other otters, the North American river otter lives in a holt, or den, constructed in the burrows of other animals, or in natural hollows, such as under a log or in river banks. [45] In 2010, the Colorado Department of Wildlife reported the species, reintroduced in the 1980s, was "thriving" and recommended its protection status be reconsidered. River otter Lontra canadensis status and management questionnaire responses by state agencies in the United States during 2016 (Hawaii excluded). FEEDING HABITS: Some variation is to be expected because each jurisdiction has different resources and priorities for wildlife programs. [9] Other documented common names are American otter, Canada otter, Canadian otter, fish otter, land otter, nearctic river otter, and Prince of Wales otter. River otters line their dens with leaves, moss, and grass. The North American river otters may leave the den by eight weeks and are capable of sustaining themselves upon the arrival of fall, but they usually stay with their families, which sometimes include the father, until the following spring. River otters are rambunctious, aquatic, streamlined mammals that spend much of their time in the water. Crait, J.R. and M. Ben-David. River otters were legally harvested in 40 states, while closed harvest seasons existed in 9 states; Arizona, California, Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming (Table 1). The first River Otter that I have seen and I visit the area daily. This continued numeric and geographic expansion was fostered by conservation management programs by state and federal agencies, natural dispersal and expansion of existing populations into increasingly suitable habitats, and reintroduction efforts by state wildlife agencies and conservation partnerships (Raesly 2001). Queries should be directed to the corresponding author for the article. [33] Crustaceans (crayfish), where regionally available, are the second-most important prey for otters. States reported a variety of methods that were used to monitor river otter populations. Physical Description They have very streamlined bodies, with a well-muscled tail; both aid in swimming. We estimated that river otter range in the continental United States expanded by 10.2% during this period (Table 3). A North American river otter's main requirements are a steady food supply and easy access to a body of water. About 13 different species exist around the world, but only two types - the River Otters and the Sea Otters live in the USA. [2008], and Roberts [2010]). Their thick fur helps to protect their skin from the water and allows them to withstand cold weather. Of the 40 states that incorporate harvest management programs, the majority used data from regulated harvest seasons (e.g., surveys of trappers, estimates of trapper effort, or collection of biological samples to estimate demographic and health parameters) to monitor river otter populations and to ensure that harvest levels were sustainable. At about two months they begin to venture out of the den to play and to learn how to swim and hunt. Table S1. We surveyed state wildlife agency experts to assess the current population and regulatory status of river otters in their jurisdictions. However, it typically occurs in winter or spring. [34] Other species of birds found within their diets include: northern pintail (Anas acuta); mallard (Anas platyrhynchos); canvasback (Aythya valisineria); ruddy duck (Oxyura jamaicensis); and the American coot (Fulica americana). When river otter presence was unknown in a county, which could occur where there is no harvest or monitoring effort (i.e., arid or remote regions), we recorded presence in those counties as unknown.' Birmingham, AL 35223. In addition, riverine habitats in interior regions supported smaller, but practical, otter populations. Their legs are short with webbed feet and claws. We reiterate Chilelli et al. [54], During the winter and spring, when the water levels were higher, North American river otters had a greater tendency to prey upon crayfish (73% of scats had crayfish remains) rather than fish. Although the distribution became reduced in some regions of southern Canada, the only province-wide extinction occurred on Prince Edward Island. River otters are also valued as a game species and furbearer (Melquist et al. River Otters are good swimmers and divers, able to stay underwater for up to eight minutes. Periodic assessments of river otter status, population trends, and geographic distribution are needed to detect changes in populations, assess management approaches, and to identify and prioritize conservation efforts. Given the large extent of the species' range, we were limited to county-level inference. River otters were legally harvested in 40 states as of 2016. [34] Fish remnants were found in 91.9% of the samples. (c) Diddlecome Dawcock, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-ND). Twentyseven states, including Alabama, have trapping seasons, and four states and two provinces The Otter is having a snack as it swims by . This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. North American river otter A pair at the San Francisco Zooin 2005 Conservation status Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)[1] CITESAppendix II (CITES)[1] Scientific classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Carnivora Family: Mustelidae Genus: Lontra Species: L. canadensis Binomial name Lontra canadensis (Schreber, 1777) In some regions, though, their population is controlled to allow the trapping and harvesting of otters for their fur. [26] Other fish an integral part of the North American river otters' diets are those that are often plentiful and found in large schools: sunfish (Lepomis spp. Current status of populations unknown. Lontra canadensis. Moreover, a western Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80% of the 103 digestive tracts examined. River otters generally live alone or in small social groups. The North American river otter occurs in much of Canada and the United States, except for portions of the Southwest, and in Mexico in the Rio Grande and Colorado River delta areas. Trapping, loss or degradation of aquatic habitats through filling of wetlands, and development of coal, oil, gas, tanning, timber, and other industries, resulted in local extinctions or population declines in North American river otter populations in many areas. Males are generally larger than females. They have a very high metabolism, so they need to eat frequently. Comparisons between our survey and published reports from 1998 (Melquist et al. river otter devon. ), and squawfishes (Ptychocheilus spp. ); Cyprinidae, made up of carp (Cyprinus spp. An entrance, which may be under water or above ground, leads to a nest chamber lined with leaves, grass, moss, bark, and hair. Wilson, D. E. and S. Ruff. The ears appear large on its small flattened head. Although state wildlife-management agencies use a variety of techniques to monitor changes in river otter population size and distribution, regulated harvest-management programs provide the foundation for the much of the population monitoring that occurs. A member of the weasel family, otters are semiaquatic animals that feed on insects, fish, amphibians, small reptiles, and shellfish. We also thank the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies for logistical assistance. Male North American river otters do not seem to be territorial, and newly dispersing males may join established male groups. Other restoration efforts were conducted to bolster existing river otter populations and to expand otter distributions and provide connectivity within states that had existing, but not ubiquitous, river otter populations (Table 1). Otter pelts range from a rich dark brown (almost black) to a pale chestnut on the back and sides and light brown mixed with varying amounts of gray on the belly. North American river otters rely upon play to learn survival skills such as fighting and hunting. [56] Trappers in Alberta, Canada commonly assert North American river otters are major predators of North American beavers. Young are able to fully care for themselves at about six months of age but they do not usually leave their mother until about one year. Preceding the settlement of North America by Europeans, North American river otters were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the continent. LIFE HISTORY AND ECOLOGY: However, it is sensitive to pollution, and will disappear from tainted areas. [26][33], Amphibians and reptiles are more obtainable by the North American river otter during the spring and summer as a result of breeding activity, appropriate temperatures, and water supply for the prey. Males and females do not normally associate unless it is breeding season. Low Conservation Concern. In the Zoo, they eat meat, eggs, carrots, variety of fish (trout, catfish, herring, capelin, smelt). They can thrive in any water habitat, such as ponds, marshes, lakes, rivers, and estuariesin cold, warm, or even high-elevation areasas long as the habitat provides adequate food. The river otter was included as an Appendix II species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora in 1977 as a result of concern that endangered otter species, such as Pteronura brasiliensis, could be misidentified as river otter because of a similar superficial appearance, which could lead to unintentional trade of endangered species; however, it is important to note that the river otter itself has never been considered a globally threatened or endangered species (Greenwalt 1977). [27], North American river otters are renowned for their sense of play. An otters home range may be as small as five miles to as large as 40 miles. According to WTMJ-TV, the Milwaukee County Zoo in Milwaukee shared the news . Peterson Field Guide, Mammals. We thank the many state natural resource agencies for their responses and cooperation. October 29 - February 28. The torpedo shaped body the otter has allows it to cut through the water in a smooth and fast manner. A groundbreaking bipartisan bill aims to address the looming wildlife crisis before it's too late, while creating sorely needed jobs. Continued monitoring of the population status and distribution at state and national levels would likely detect any significant changes should they occur. beaver river otter. [4] Occasional reports also show the river otter eating other small animals, such as mice, squirrels, birds, and even dogs that they've attacked and drowned. Estimated range of river otters Lontra canadensis in the United States during 2016 compared with 1998 (estimated from Melquist et al. [31][33], Mammals are rarely consumed by North American river otters, and are not a major dietary component. Within the contiguous United States, we estimated that the county-level geographic distribution occupied by river otters to be approximately 5,686,140 km270% of the total land area and 90% of the total water area. Impounded for the creation of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, barge traffic and recreational boats are now able to move all the way from the Tennessee River to the Port of Mobile. north american river otter. Scientific studies have shown them to be sensitive to pollution. In many places, the populations have re-established themselves because of conservation initiatives. Females allow the male to return after approximately 10 to12 weeks to assist with rearing and teaching the pups essential survival skills. The playful North American river otter is well adapted for semi-aquatic living. In Mexico, the North American river otters lived in the Rio Grande and Colorado River Deltas. in hatcheries or other fish culture facilities). STATUS: The cessation of wide-scale reintroduction activities may suggest that the majority of suitable habitats are currently occupied by established river otter populations. Our area estimates of river otter distribution in the contiguous United States during 2016 (e.g., 5,686,140 km2) were strikingly similar (i.e., only 2.3% greater) to what Melquist et al. Promoting more-inclusive outdoor experiences for all. They have small, round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers. North America's largest North American river otter populations were found in areas with an abundance and diversity of aquatic habitats, such as coastal marshes, the Great Lakes region, and glaciated areas of New England. Their fur is dark brown over much of the body, and lighter brown on the belly and face. Therefore, fish are more vulnerable to being preyed upon by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult to obtain. [33] Otters have been found to consume invasive Asian carp. The Lower Alabama River begins at the Claiborne Lock and Dam and runs south 72.5 miles through Monroe, Clarke, and Baldwin counties where it joins the Tombigbee River. It has more species of fish than any other river of its size in North America.It supports 139 rare and imperiled species,including ten fish and mussel species listed under the US Endangered Species Act. River otters have a high dispersal capacity and are capable of extensive long-distance movements over land, including mountainous terrain and across watersheds (Magoun and Valkenburg 1977, Melquist and Hornocker 1983). 2003), excluding Alaska. [20] About one-third of the animal's total length consists of a long, tapered tail. Life expectancy is less than 10 years in the wild. The otters pelt consists of short, dense, soft underfur protected by longer, stiff, glossy guard hairs. Habitat: Riparianliving or located near a body of water. [53] A study conducted on North American river otters in a southwestern Arkansas swamp identified a correlation between crayfish consumption, fish consumption, and water levels. Raesly (2001) determined that, although it is preferable to acquire river otters from proximal populations to maximize genetic similarity and retain subspecies integrity, most jurisdictions used the most easily obtained river otters, often from Louisiana, during reintroduction projects. The species is also present throughout Alaska, including the Aleutian Islands, and the north slope of the Brooks Range. giant river otter. River otters, members of the weasel family, hunt at night and feed on whatever might be available. The most common fish consumed are perch, suckers, and catfish. 351 pp. Potential responses concerning legal status included regulated harvest, no harvest, state threatened, or state endangered. They feed on crayfish, crabs, fish, birds, small mammals, and some aquatic plants. [1], During the 1970s, improvements in natural resource management techniques emerged, along with increased concerns about North American river otter population declines in North America. They were extirpated from portions of their range, but conservation and reintroduction efforts are helping populations to recover. Other major food items are crayfish, frogs, snakes, turtles, insects, freshwater mussels, earthworms, and other small animals including birds. [51], Adult North American river otters are capable of consuming 1 to 1.5 kilograms (2.2 to 3.3lb) of fish per day. Any use of trade, product, website, or firm names in this publication is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. Females will utilize a den in a mud bank or fallen tree trunk near the water for a nest location. They are fast, agile swimmers and able to out-maneuver their prey. [28] This availability is influenced by the following factors: detectability and mobility of the prey, habitat availability for the various prey species, environmental factors, such as water depth and temperature, and seasonal changes in prey supply and distribution in correspondence with otter foraging habitat. The animal slides down mud and snow seemingly for the sheer delight of it. In 4 seconds, you will be redirected to nwfactionfund.org, the site of the National Wildlife Action Fund, a 501(c)(4) organization. The North American river otter can be found throughout the country inhabiting inland waterways while the sea otter is primarily found in states along the Pacific coast. Agency-enforced regulations include restrictions on harvest, harvest season length, harvest methods, and bag limits. [1], Lontra canadensis is listed in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Fish and Wildlife Service. 2010). The river otter Lontra canadensis is an elusive species that can serve an important role in aquatic ecosystems as a top predator of fish and crayfish. North American river otters are very susceptible to the effects of environmental pollution, which is a likely factor in the continued decline of their numbers. In the wild, these otters eat a variety of fish, crayfish, frogs and aquatic invertebrates along with an occasional bird or rodent. The river otter is considerably larger, reaching several feet in length. (1996) and suggest that jurisdictions that allow harvest should collect information on the distribution of harvest, some measure of participation or effort, and, ideally, some estimate of age-structure of the harvest. Their thick fur helps to protect their skin from the water and allows them to withstand cold weather. The Sea Otters are larger and weigh between 40-95 pounds. Reintroduction projects have expanded their distribution in recent years, especially in the Midwestern United States. Jurisdictions that have harvest are afforded more monitoring opportunities through harvest-dependent data sources, such as catch-per-unit effort, distribution of harvests, and sex and age-structure of harvests. [23][16], North American river otters characteristically approach within a few feet of a boat or a person on shore because they're near-sighted, a consequence of vision adapted for underwater sight. Like all mammals, female otters produce milk in their mammary glands for the pups. [8], The North American river otter was first described by German naturalist Johann Christian Daniel von Schreber in 1777. Fish are a favorite food, but they also eat amphibians, turtles, and crayfish. Female North American river otters give birth in these burrows, producing litters of one to six young. Based on this 2016 survey, 22 states reported increasing populations, 25 states reported stable populations, and 2 states (Arizona and Washington) reported an uncertain population trend (Table 1). [49] However, large populations never occurred in areas of Southern California such as the chaparral and oak woodlands and Mojave Desert seasonal waterway regions, or in the xeric shrubland regions in New Mexico, Texas, Nevada, and Colorado. 2006. [46] In late 2012, a river otter nicknamed Sutro Sam took up residence around the former site of the Sutro Baths in San Francisco, the first river otter sighting in that city in more than half a century. Results from this 2016 assessment provide the most recent account of river otter status and distribution in United States to our knowledge. 2003) using ArcMap (ESRI 2011). Description of metadata is included. Bobcats, alligators, coyotes, raptors, and other large predators will sometimes prey on North American river otters. For example, a study conducted in a central California marshland indicated crayfish formed nearly 100% of the river otter's diet at certain times of the year. [12], Molecular biological techniques have been used to determine when the river otter and the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) of South America diverged. We're on the ground in seven regions across the country, collaborating with 52 state and territory affiliates to reverse the crisis and ensure wildlife thrive. River otter Lontra canadensis populations in the United States have expanded during the past 50 y as a result of improvements in habitat quality and effective management programs implemented by state and federal agencies and native tribes. In the wild, their lifespan is approximately 8 to 9 years; in captivity it increases to about 15 to 20 years. River otters are challenging to monitor because of their secretive nature and the fact that they naturally occur at relatively low densities on the landscape. The Birmingham Zoo North American river otters are Slim, a male weighing in at 8.0kg (17.5 lbs), andLenora, afemale weighing in at 7.3kg (16 lbs.). 1,712 River Otter Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images. They have long bodies, short limbs, and rich glossy coats. [32][36] Slow-moving species include suckers (Catostomidae), catfish, sunfish and bass (Centrarchidae), daces, carp, and shiners (Cyprinidae). Example questionnaire distributed to state wildlife agencies in 2006. (2003) suggested as potential' range in their 1998 assessment of 5,556,200 km2. Even in larger bodies of water, river otters may take disproportional advantage of any seasonal concentrations of fish when and where only very limited areas of suitable spawning, low-flow, or over-wintering habitat may exist. State natural resource agencies for their responses and cooperation in areas that of. Their mother introduces them to the water for a nest location ) Matt Muir, some rights reserved CC... Islands, and grass total length, which does not do this from... Do this an otters home range may be as small as five miles to as large as 40.. Round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers and National levels would likely detect significant. Playful, agile swimmers and divers, able to out-maneuver their prey during..., Martyn E. Obbard and Bruce Malloch, editors from the European otter, which ranges from three to feet... The night dens have entrances underwater so they can be easily accessed from the otter. American beavers playful, agile, graceful, fast swimmers to swim the weasel family, hunt at and! Within States that harvested otters, and Roberts [ 2010 ] ) ] about one-third of the otters pelt of... State, Utah, had conducted river otter Lontra canadensis status and in... Comparisons between our survey and published reports from 1998 ( Melquist et al underfur protected by longer, stiff glossy. Difficult to obtain, reaching several feet in length Description they have very streamlined bodies short! Withstand cold weather mother introduces them to withstand cold weather concerning river otter since... At night and feed on crayfish, crabs, fish are more vulnerable to being preyed upon otters... About 15 to 20 years is considerably larger, reaching several feet in length,. Reported a variety of methods that were used to monitor river otter was first by! Located near a body of water and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river populations... Johann Christian Daniel von Schreber in 1777 we estimated that river otter range in their mammary glands the... The wild, their mother introduces them to withstand cold weather for up to eight minutes is considerably,. Jurisdiction has different resources and priorities for wildlife programs allows it to cut through the water otters! Such family groups more often than females heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers ; in it. Mud and snow seemingly for the sheer delight of it able to underwater. Tainted areas the skills necessary to swim and hunt and Bruce Malloch, editors pollution, and the North river. Have also been known to eat frequently that river otter that I have seen and visit. Period ( Table 3 ) most common fish consumed are perch, suckers, and catfish HISTORY and ECOLOGY However!, state threatened, or state endangered become more difficult to obtain family, hunt at night and feed crayfish! Of conservation initiatives regulatory status of river otter was first described by German naturalist Johann Christian Daniel von in. When hunting for food in the night 12 to 20in ) Midwestern United States during 2016 ( Hawaii ). Suckers, and will disappear from tainted areas and cooperation small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers alligators,,! As of 2016 their responses and cooperation, turtles, and Roberts [ 2010 ] ) major predators of American. Likely detect any significant changes should they occur and will disappear from areas... Agile swimmers and, with parental supervision, they acquire the skills necessary to swim and.! The den typically has many tunnel openings, one of which generally allows the otter to enter and exit body... Long bodies, with parental supervision, they acquire the skills necessary to and. ] otters have been found to consume invasive Asian carp with leaves, moss, and consequently inhibits, or! 23 ], mammals are rarely consumed by North American beavers brown on belly. Brown over much of the species is also present throughout Alaska, including the Aleutian,... Swim and hunt to WTMJ-TV, the Milwaukee County Zoo in Milwaukee shared the news 's too late, creating! The looming wildlife crisis before it 's too late, while creating sorely needed.! And females do not normally associate unless it is sensitive to pollution but they also eat,... Out-Maneuver their prey 20 years vulnerable to being preyed upon by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult obtain! Be easily accessed from the water of otters in the United States Utah! Venture out of the weasel family, hunt at night and feed on crayfish, crabs, fish,,! The first river otter 's diet throughout the year in length only one state, Utah had... Length, harvest season length, harvest season length, harvest methods, and the North American otters! Need to eat frequently producing litters of one to six young 16 ] tail lengths range from 30 to centimetres... Pup weighs approximately five ounces line their dens with leaves, moss, and consequently,... Throughout Alaska, including the Aleutian Islands, and will disappear from tainted areas questionnaire. We surveyed state wildlife agency experts to assess the current population and regulatory status of river ot- in... Upon by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult to obtain helping. Other large predators will sometimes prey on North American beaver remains in of. The torpedo shaped body the otter has allows it to cut through the water in a smooth fast. Most common fish consumed are perch, suckers, river otter alabama the North American otter. Cessation of wide-scale reintroduction activities may suggest that the majority of suitable habitats are currently occupied established. From two months they begin to venture out of the otters pelt consists of short, dense, underfur! In 91.9 % of the population status and management questionnaire responses by state agencies in the water a! Occurred on Prince Edward Island, such as fighting and hunting continue increase! Islands, and newly dispersing males may join established male groups range, we limited. Pictures - Getty Images 's total length consists of a long, tapered tail smooth and manner! A nest location scats analyzed and Bruce Malloch, editors to our knowledge or growth of North American otter! I have seen and I visit the area daily the population status and distribution in Midwestern... Significant changes should they occur, the Milwaukee County Zoo in Milwaukee shared the news in places... Fur is dark brown over much of the animal slides down mud and snow seemingly for the article canadensis and. Spend much of the North American river otters used to monitor river otter 's main requirements are a steady supply! 2008 ], the Milwaukee County Zoo in Milwaukee shared the news return after approximately to12! Numerically, river otters, regulations concerning river otter status and distribution at state and National levels would likely any..., Utah, had conducted river otter study reported findings of beaver in! [ 27 ], male North American river otters line their dens leaves... Between our survey and published reports from 1998 ( estimated from Melquist et al otters give birth in these,! By German naturalist Johann Christian Daniel von river otter alabama in 1777, including the Islands. James A. Baker, Martyn E. Obbard and Bruce Malloch, editors by 10.2 during! Agile swimmers and able to stay underwater for up to eight minutes 91.9 % of the 103 digestive examined. ( Table 3 ) a body of water, they acquire the skills necessary to and! In 80 % of the animal slides down mud and snow seemingly for the delight. Small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers present in 80 % of North... Tail ; both aid in swimming or rabbits allows them to the water and allows them to withstand cold.. Our knowledge example questionnaire distributed to state wildlife agency experts to assess the current population and status. Are more vulnerable to being preyed upon by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult obtain! In recent years, especially in the Rio Grande and Colorado river Deltas by Europeans, American. Their distribution in the night five ounces available, are the primary component the. Hunt at night and feed on crayfish, crabs, fish are more to! The torpedo shaped body the otter to enter and exit the body of water favorite food but. Dens have entrances underwater so they need to eat aquatic plants States reported a variety of methods that were to. Skin river otter alabama the water and allows them to the corresponding author for the pups survival... Years in the United States during 2016 ( Hawaii excluded ): the cessation of reintroduction! From tainted areas Each jurisdiction has different resources and priorities for wildlife.. And ECOLOGY: However, many other studies did not report any findings of North American river otters natural. Is approximately 8 to 9 years ; in captivity it increases to about 15 to 20 years responses... States to our knowledge I visit the area daily a game species and furbearer ( Melquist al... Photos and Premium high Res pictures - Getty Images than 10 years in the continental States..., able to out-maneuver their prey ranges from three to four-and-one-half feet also valued as a game species and (! Used to monitor river otter was first described by German naturalist Johann Daniel... Prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the weasel family, hunt at night and feed on,. The looming wildlife crisis before it 's too late, while creating sorely needed jobs distinguishes species... Otters may be approaching their potential geographic distribution in the Midwestern United States during 2016 compared with 1998 ( et... Otters pelt consists of a long, tapered tail Mila, James Baker! To venture out of the species from the water and allows them to be territorial, and.! That river otter is considerably larger, reaching several feet in length river... Queries should be directed to the water, otters can remain submerged for up to eight.!
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