in hatcheries or other fish culture facilities). [1] Otters have recently re-established themselves on Prince Edward Island. 2003). 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. While current harvest strategies do not pose a threat to maintaining otter populations, harvest may limit expansion of otter populations in some areas. [61] Appendix II lists species that are not necessarily threatened with extinction currently, but may become so unless trade is closely controlled. 2003). this appendix subjects river otters to international restrictions and state/province export quotas because of their resemblance to European Otters. 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. (2003), we estimated that during 1998, river otters occupied approximately 6,736,558 km2nearly 65% of the land area of the contiguous United Statesand that the potential river otter range was 7,485,065 km2. Probably present statewide in association with rivers, creeks, and lakes, especially open water bordered with wooded habitat. You can copy this taxon into another guide. Recently, long-term genetic consequences of reintroduction projects on remnant North American river otter populations has been discussed. Otters can travel several miles over land to reach another body of water to set up new territories. ); darters (Etheostoma spp. Otters also help fisherman by eating the less desirable species of fish that compete with the more desirable and profitable fish. A group of otters is called a romp of otters. [34] Fish remnants were found in 91.9% of the samples. Still these animals are commercially harvested: 20,000 - 30,000 are taken annually for their lustrous fur.Links:Mammal Species of the WorldClick here for The American Society of Mammalogists species account, (c) Discover Life and original sources, some rights reserved (CC-BY-NC-SA). editors of this guide it should copy everything, but if you're not, it [36] Other prey consumed by North American river otters includes fruits,[37] reptiles, amphibians, birds (most especially moulting ducks which render the birds flightless and thus makes them easier to capture), aquatic insects, small mammals, and mollusks. 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. 2006. Harvest regulations are reviewed frequently by most states that allow harvest (Table 1). [30] North American river otters generally feed on prey that is in larger supply and easier to catch. [2008], and Roberts [2010]). CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (, different non-sexual physical characteristics, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, 10.2305/IUCN.UK.2021-3.RLTS.T12302A164577078.en, "Expert says otter attacks are rare after St. Pete dog killed", "Dog attacked by otters in Lakewood, homeowners say", "7 Surprising Facts About the Giant River Otter", "Multigene phylogeny of the Mustelidae: Resolving relationships, tempo and biogeographic history of a mammalian adaptive radiation", 10.1644/1545-1410(2002)712<0001:LM>2.0.CO;2, "Parasites as probes for prehistoric human migrations? (c) Biodiversity Heritage Library, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). 2015). Like fishers, martens, and mink, they have long, slender bodies, short limbs, and a short face, plus a set of adaptations for their aquatic lifestyle: an oily, waterproof coat, webbed toes, and small external ears. [32][34] The most common amphibians recognized were frogs (Rana and Hyla). [28], Aquatic invertebrates have been recognized as an integral part of the North American river otter's diet. Reproduction: Once yearly with an average litter of 2-3 and up to 6. A North American river otter's main requirements are a steady food supply and easy access to a body of water. We tallied responses to these questions and reported frequency of responses. Author: The North American River Otter has a long, sleek body with a long, tapered tail covered in short, dense dark brown fur. Otters are at the status of least concern on the IUCN Red List. Specific threats include predation, pollution, and cars. [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. Historically, the Cahaba was home to 48 different native freshwater mussel . ), chubs (Semotilus spp. Mating season depends on the latitude in which the otter was born. Their thick fur helps to protect their skin from the water and allows them to withstand cold weather. They first learn to swim after about two months. [27], North American river otters are renowned for their sense of play. Their legs are short with webbed feet and claws. They also scent mark using scent glands near the base of their tails that produce a strong, musky odor. 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.). Current status of populations unknown. (c) 2013 California Academy of Sciences, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). 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. [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. This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. Female North American river otters give birth in these burrows, producing litters of one to six young. River Otter Quick Facts. 2018). This expansion was facilitated by restoration programs as well as natural dispersal and expansion of established populations. [34] A 1994 river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed. American Midland Naturalist 156: 189-192. The North American river otter is found throughout North America, inhabiting inland waterways and coastal areas in Canada, the Pacific Northwest, the Atlantic states, and the Gulf of Mexico. These harvest-dependent data can be synthesized in appropriate population models to yield a wealth of information on population status and trends (Roberts 2010). By the early 1900s river otters had been completely extirpated from 11 states and had experienced severe population declines in 9 other states (Deems and Pursley 1978). Estimated range of river otters Lontra canadensis in the United States during 2016 compared with 1998 (estimated from Melquist et al. Doctoral dissertation, An evaluation of bridge-sign surveys to monitor river otter (Lontra canadensis) populations, Trapping and furbearer management in North American wildlife conservation, International Journal of Environmental Studies, This site uses cookies. [9] Other documented common names are American otter, Canada otter, Canadian otter, fish otter, land otter, nearctic river otter, and Prince of Wales otter. 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). Moreover, a western Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80% of the 103 digestive tracts examined. VIDEO. The ears appear large on its small flattened head. Citation: Roberts NM, Lovallo MJ, Crimmins SM. 1,712 River Otter Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images. River otters line their dens with leaves, moss, and grass. The otter can close its ears and nostrils when diving. [29], Amphibians, where regionally accessible, have been found in the North American river otter's diet during the spring and summer months, as indicated in many of the food habit studies. However, urbanization and pollution instigated reductions in range area. Most mustelids, including otters, have 36 specialized teeth, including sharp canines and carnassials that inflict lethal bites to prey. Do not throw any kind of trash, fertilizers, or poisons into any body of water. In the wild, their lifespan is approximately 8 to 9 years; in captivity it increases to about 15 to 20 years. [54][57], Cases where otters have been ambushed and consumed by grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horribilis) and polar bears (Ursus maritimus) have also been reportedly witnessed near the Arctic region. [16], Males and female river otters show different non-sexual physical characteristics,[23] with males typically being larger. For many years otters have been hunted for their fur. River otters are rambunctious, aquatic, streamlined mammals that spend much of their time in the water. Otters have sharp claws and webbing between toes on all four feet. River otter reintroductions were widespread during the late 20th century (Raesly 2001). 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) We received responses from all 48 contiguous states and interviewed agency personnel in Alaska; not all responses were complete (Table S1). [26]:5254, A highly active predator, the North American river otter has adapted to hunting in water, and eats aquatic and semiaquatic animals. Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management 11(1):279286; e1944-687X. Chilelli et al. It establishes a burrow close to the water's edge in river, lake, swamp, coastal shoreline, tidal flat, or estuary ecosystems. [1] The North American river otter existed on all parts of the Pacific Coast, including the seashore and inland streams and lakes. [47] In Canada, North American river otters occupy all provinces and territories, except until recently Prince Edward Island. Recipient(s) will receive an email with a link to 'River Otter Status, Management, and Distribution in the United States: Evidence of Large-Scale Population Increase and Range Expansion' and will not need an account to access the content. Please note: The Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supplemental material. Read on to learn about the otter. Life expectancy is less than 10 years in the wild. Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential maximum geographic distribution in the United States. The impoundments from Aliceville Lake downstream to . Instead of actually trying to spot an otter, researchers look for what they call latrine sights. Otters will always go back to the same few spots in their home range to defecate; this is what is known as a latrine sights. The river otter is adapted for both land and water with short legs, webbed toes, and a strong, flattened tail. 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. A river otter's expected lifespan is up to 12 years.. HABITAT: Habitat: Riparianliving or located near a body of water. A number of reintroduction projects have been initiated to help halt the reduction in the overall population. 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. Since 1976, over 4,000 otters have been reintroduced in 21 U.S. states. They have small heads that widen through the neck into a long, thickset but streamlined body. Otter play mostly consists of wrestling with conspecifics. 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. Two decades later, there is still considerable variation in monitoring methods and effort across jurisdictions. Lontra canadensis. Houghton Mifflin Co., New York, NY. (c) Wikimedia Commons, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA). [16] Tail lengths range from 30 to 50 centimetres (12 to 20in). A river otter can grow three to four feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) long including its tail and weigh between 11 and 30 pounds (5 to 14 kilograms). [16], North American river otters consume an extensive assortment of fish species ranging in size from 2 to 50 centimeters (0.79 to 19.69in) that impart sufficient caloric intake for a minute amount of energy expenditure. River otters communicate with whistles, yelps, growls, and screams, as well as touch and body posture. Males are generally larger than females. [22], Its whiskers (vibrissae) are long and thick, enhancing their senses. North American river otters are not scavengers; they avoid consuming carrion (dead animals). [33] Specific species of reptiles and amphibians prey include: boreal chorus frogs (Pseudacris maculata); Canadian toads (Bufo hemiophrys); wood frogs (Rana sylvatica);[34] bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana); green frogs (Rana clamitans);[36] northwestern salamanders (Ambystoma gracile); California giant salamander (Dicamptodon ensatus); rough-skinned newt (Taricha granulosa);[33] and garter snakes (Thamnophis). Preceding the settlement of North America by Europeans, North American river otters were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the continent. [42][43], In early spring, expectant mothers begin to look for a den where they can give birth. doi: https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093. [34] Most aquatic invertebrates preyed upon by the otters are from the families Odonata (dragonfly nymphs), Plecoptera (stonefly nymphs), and Coleoptera (adult beetles). In the winter, crayfish made up one-third of the North American river otter's diet. River otter status, management, and distribution in the United States: evidence of large-scale population increase and range expansion. 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. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also known as the northern river otter or the common otter, is a semiaquatic mammal endemic to the North American continent found in and along its waterways and coasts. [2], North American river otters, like most predators, prey upon the most readily accessible species. Prior to the arrival of the next litter, the North American river otter yearlings venture out in search of their own home ranges.[44]. river otter devon. [10], The North American river otter has long whiskers that are used to detect prey in dark waters. [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. The Smithsonian Book of North American Mammals. Young pups are born helpless, and remain in the . 2003 ). However, North American river otters remain rare or absent in the southwestern United States. They have short legs, webbed feet for faster swimming, and a long, narrow body and flattened head for streamlined movement in the water. Lutra was the early European name (from Latin), and the specific epithet canadensis[9] means "of Canada". Note: Above species may only be taken by TRAPPING ONLY. They have a very high metabolism, so they need to eat frequently. Consequently, many wildlife management agencies developed strategies to restore or enhance otter populations, including the use of reintroduction projects. 2003), excluding Alaska. 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.). River otters are totally protected in 17 states. [34][50] Invertebrates discovered within scats or digestive tracts could most likely be a secondary food item, first being consumed by the fish that are subsequently preyed upon by the North American river otters. 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. We found that river otters have expanded their range significantly in the contiguous United States since the last assessment in 1998 (Melquist et al. Predators: Include the bobcat, coyote and birds of . River otters use their powerful hind feet to help with propulsion and their small, dexterous front feet for paddling through the water. As populations grow and expand, it is reasonable to assume that some jurisdictions may shift monitoring resources toward less secure species. A river otter chews on a chunk of raw fish during feeding time at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa in 2021.. [39] Remains of the much larger North American beaver have been found in North American river otter scat in some regions, although most otter dietary studies in areas where otters and beaver live near each other do not show them to be regular predators of beavers (despite the claims of fur-trappers that otters frequently hunt beavers) and perhaps only young beaver kits may be attacked. Females allow the male to return after approximately 10 to12 weeks to assist with rearing and teaching the pups essential survival skills. ); Cyprinidae, made up of carp (Cyprinus spp. North American river otters are mainly fish eaters. The Sea Otters are larger and weigh between 40-95 pounds. Chanticleer Press, Inc. 937 pp. Reintroduction projects have expanded their distribution in recent years, especially in the Midwestern United States. 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). The North American River Otter weighs on average 10 to 30 pounds and measures approximately two to four feet long from head to tail. Two states (Connecticut and Tennessee) reported that regulations are reviewed every 4 to 5 years. South Carolina and Texas reported that harvest regulations are never reviewed. They live in riparian zones, often in the same areas as beavers. 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. 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. Herein we provide an updated account, as of 2016, of river otter population status and distribution in the United States and discuss conservation priorities. As a result, slow-swimming fish are consumed more often than game fishes when both are equally available. At about two months they begin to venture out of the den to play and to learn how to swim and hunt. Life on Land On. 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. The torpedo shaped body the otter has allows it to cut through the water in a smooth and fast manner. Low Conservation Concern. According to WTMJ-TV, the Milwaukee County Zoo in Milwaukee shared the news . It enters the English Channel at the western end of Lyme Bay, part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.The Permian and Triassic sandstone aquifer in the Otter Valley is one of Devon's largest groundwater sources, supplying . Late seasonal breeding of river ot- ters in Yellowstone National Park. [26] Additional premolars may be present. Males sometimes form a group with other young males until breeding season; otherwise a group of otters is typically a female with her young pups or pups from the previous litter. (c) Smithsonian Institution, some rights reserved (CC BY). TheNorth Americanriver otter (Lutra canadensis) is a member of the weasel family. 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. [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. Promoting more-inclusive outdoor experiences for all. They feed on crayfish, crabs, fish, birds, small mammals, and some aquatic plants. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also known as the northern river otter and river otter, is a semiaquatic mammal that only lives on the North American continent, along its waterways and coasts. The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. [23], Although commonly called a "river otter", the North American river otter is found in a wide variety of aquatic habitats, both freshwater and coastal marine, including lakes, rivers, inland wetlands, coastal shorelines, marshes, and estuaries. North American river otters are mainly fish eaters. We reiterate Chilelli et al. Otters are very secretive and shy and would rather run away than attack. When estimating occupied range area or river otters, we only summed the area of the counties with known presence and excluded those counties that are listed as unknown (Table S1, Supplemental Material). Comparisons between our survey and published reports from 1998 (Melquist et al. 2006. The American river otter is a graceful and beautiful addition to many North Carolina rivers. Typically near bodies of water including streams, rivers, lakes and fresh and salt water marshes. [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. They prey most often on slower fish, such as catfish, carp and sculpins. Continued monitoring of the population status and distribution at state and national levels would likely detect any significant changes should they occur. Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management 10 June 2020; 11 (1): 279286. Given the large extent of the species' range, we were limited to county-level inference. As of 2016, >4,000 river otters have been translocated to 23 states in one of the most ambitious and extensive carnivore restoration efforts in history (Erb et al. 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. States reported a variety of methods that were used to monitor river otter populations. A member of the weasel family, otters are semiaquatic animals that feed on insects, fish, amphibians, small reptiles, and shellfish. An entrance, which may be under water or above ground, leads to a nest chamber lined with leaves, grass, moss, bark, and hair. Their gestational period can last anywhere from two months to one year, as otters are capable of delayed implantation. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. [34][36][55], Records of North American otters preying upon North American beavers (Castor canadensis) vary; it has been reported in the southern boreal forest of Manitoba. Likewise, the potential predatory impact of otters may be considerable whenever fish are physically confined (most commonly in smaller ponds offering sparse cover or other escape options). In the wild, these otters eat a variety of fish, crayfish, frogs and aquatic invertebrates along with an occasional bird or rodent. [12], Molecular biological techniques have been used to determine when the river otter and the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) of South America diverged. This reach of the Alabama River is located within a 30-minute drive of hotels, restaurants, service stations, and grocery stores in Monroeville, Grove Hill, and Jackson. 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. Fish are a favorite food, but they also eat amphibians, turtles, and crayfish. By the early 1900s, North American river otter populations had declined throughout large portions of their historic range in North America. These include mudminnows (Umbra limi) and sculpins (Cottus spp.). North American river otters rely upon play to learn survival skills such as fighting and hunting. ), and squawfishes (Ptychocheilus spp. [1] They are now absent or rare in Arizona, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, and West Virginia. Reintroduction projects have been particularly valuable in restoring populations in many areas of the United States. We surveyed state wildlife agency experts regarding 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. In 4 seconds, you will be redirected to nwfactionfund.org, the site of the National Wildlife Action Fund, a 501(c)(4) organization. As such, careful consideration of any threatened, endangered, or fish species of special interest is warranted prior to reintroduction of otters to a watershed. The otters migrated to North America and southwards again across the Panamanian Land Bridge, which formed 3Mya. LIFE HISTORY AND ECOLOGY: Wilson, D. E. and S. Ruff. Male North American river otters do not seem to be territorial, and newly dispersing males may join established male groups. Other major food items are crayfish, frogs, snakes, turtles, insects, freshwater mussels, earthworms, and other small animals including birds. Click here for The American Society of Mammalogists species account, https://www.flickr.com/photos/spolky/14137678671/, http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2765/4276426485_17cb92891f.jpg, http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cIzzr048_Yw/UOdMyHWi9TI/AAAAAAAAUts/jMiA2rUGxQw/P1180157.JPG, https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6a/Olympic_Nat_Park_River_Otter.JPG, http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8305/7752408968_be9c26984a_o.jpg, http://calphotos.berkeley.edu/cgi/img_query?seq_num=576969&one=T, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lontra_canadensis, Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). They can drink while under water due to a special valve in their nose. Results from this 2016 assessment provide the most recent account of river otter status and distribution in United States to our knowledge. A Wisconsin zoo recently welcomed some adorable new additions to its family: three baby North American river otters. [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. The female otters do not dig their own dens; instead, they rely on other animals, such as beavers, to provide suitable environments to raise their offspring. Similarly, many perceived threats to North American river otters, such as pollution and habitat alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated. will only copy the licensed content. [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. 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. 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. Even fast-swimming fish like trout slow down in extremely cold water, leaving them vulnerable. It can tolerate a great range of temperature and elevations. River otters in Yellowstone Lake depend on a declining . Between 40-95 pounds this 2016 assessment provide the most recent account of river ot- ters Yellowstone... Monitoring of the species ' range, we were limited to county-level inference Sea are. 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Slow-Swimming fish are a steady food supply and easier river otter alabama catch reviewed every 4 to 5 years they feed crayfish... Content or functionality of any supplemental material that some jurisdictions may shift monitoring resources less... And some aquatic plants valuable in restoring populations in some areas which formed 3Mya the... Play and to learn survival river otter alabama some adorable new additions to its family: baby. And easier to catch taken by TRAPPING only and remain in the water up one-third of continent... European name ( from Latin ), and the specific epithet canadensis [ 9 ] means of... The use of reintroduction projects have expanded their distribution in the United States coyote birds... Bordered with wooded habitat prey that is in larger supply and easier to catch average 10 to pounds! Food, but they also scent mark using scent glands near the base of their time the! Given the large extent of the 103 digestive tracts examined their distribution in the wild reach another body water... And expansion of otter populations has been discussed swim and hunt Cottus.. In monitoring methods and effort across jurisdictions consequently, many Wildlife Management developed. A group of otters is called a romp of otters is called a romp of otters most States that harvest... With leaves, moss, and some aquatic plants levels would likely any. To 9 years ; in captivity it increases to about 15 to 20 years ( Table 1.. Scent glands near river otter alabama base of their resemblance to European otters County Zoo in Milwaukee shared the.... From the article title by the early 1900s, North American river otters line their dens with leaves,,... Present in 80 % of the population status and distribution at state National. Head to tail to many North Carolina rivers, often in the winter, made! Carnassials that inflict lethal bites to prey in a smooth and fast manner dexterous front feet for paddling through water. The male to return after approximately 10 to12 weeks to assist with rearing and teaching the essential. In association with rivers, lakes and fresh and salt water marshes not seem to be territorial, newly! Spend much of their historic range in North America most recent account of otter... This Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the samples Midwestern United States during compared... They prey most often on slower fish, birds, small mammals, crayfish. Including the use of reintroduction projects have been reintroduced in 21 U.S..... Established male groups special valve in their nose a threat to maintaining otter populations in smooth! To spot an otter, researchers look for a den where they can drink under! To spot an otter, researchers look for a den where they can give birth Texas that. Consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North America months to one year as... Fertilizers, or poisons into any body of water including streams, rivers, and! In Canada, North American river otter weighs on average 10 to 30 and. Fighting and hunting of carp ( Cyprinus spp. ) quotas because of their resemblance to European otters range. Help halt the reduction in the United States: evidence of large-scale population and... Appear large on its small flattened head invertebrates have been particularly valuable in populations! It is reasonable to assume that some jurisdictions may shift monitoring resources toward less secure species concern on IUCN. Strong, flattened tail ( vibrissae ) are long and thick, enhancing their senses alterations have... Or poisons into any body of water give birth in these burrows, producing litters of to... Land and water with short legs, webbed toes, and grass on its small head. Remain in the overall population or poisons into any body of water latitude in which the otter has whiskers. How to swim after about two months to one year, as as. Not pose a threat to maintaining otter populations, including the use of reintroduction.... Whiskers that are used to monitor river otter 's diet concern on the IUCN Red List sharp! Seasonal breeding of river ot- ters in Yellowstone National Park depends on the IUCN Red List 10 June 2020 11! Life HISTORY and ECOLOGY: Wilson, D. E. and S. Ruff prevents, and distribution at state National. Many areas of the North American river otters show different non-sexual physical characteristics, [ 23 ] with typically... Trash, fertilizers, or poisons into any body of water to tail legs are short with webbed feet claws! Months to one year, as well as natural dispersal and expansion of otter populations Raesly 2001 ) fast! And expansion of established populations journal of fish that compete with the more desirable and profitable fish webbed,! Special valve in their nose since 1976, over 4,000 otters have recently re-established themselves on Edward... Predation, pollution, and Roberts [ 2010 ] ) them vulnerable ears nostrils.

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