Where an otter looks seal-like, a mink looks ferret-like, however. Only three states (Illinois, Kentucky, and North Dakota) did not provide a response to our question about regulation review frequency (Table 1). 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. [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). Please note: The Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supplemental material. Responses for population trends included increasing, stable, or decreasing (although we did not specify the timeframe). They have small, round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers. You can copy this taxon into another guide. Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential geographic distribution in the United States. 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.' Diet: Primarily consumes fish, mollusks and other invertebrates. [50] The few occurrences of mammals found in the North American river otter's diet include: muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus); meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus); eastern cottontails (Sylvilagus floridanus); and snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus). Adults generally give birth to between one and three pups, which are blind and helpless when born. Behind-the-Scenes Encounters & Experiences, Passion into Conservation Action (PiCA) Program, Participation in the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International. [36] A study conducted on captive otters revealed they preferred larger fish, ranging from 15 to 17 centimeters (5.9 to 6.7in), more than smaller fish, ranging from 8 to 10 centimeters (3.1 to 3.9in), and they had difficulty catching fish species less than 10 centimeters (3.9in) or larger than 17 centimeters (6.7in). LIFEHISTORY AND ECOLOGY: North American river otters were hunted and trapped extensively for their fur in the 19th and 20th centuries, and are still hunted in some places. We received responses from all 48 contiguous states and interviewed agency personnel in Alaska; not all responses were complete (Table S1). Note: Above species may only be taken by TRAPPING ONLY. ), shiners (Notropis and Richardsonius spp. 2003) using ArcMap (ESRI 2011). [16] The dental formula is 3.1.4.13.1.3.2. We tallied responses to these questions and reported frequency of responses. River otter fur ranges from light to dark, rich brown. [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. Their legs are short with webbed feet and claws. In addition, riverine habitats in interior regions supported smaller, but practical, otter populations. (c) Smithsonian Institution, some rights reserved (CC BY). Also, North American river otters have large molars used for crushing hard objects, such as the shells of molluscs. Identification. 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. All Canadian provinces except Prince Edward Island and 29 U.S. states have viable populations that sustain annual harvests. Twenty-one of the 23 states (91.3%) that implemented reintroductions reported that populations were increasing or had reached population goals, and 2 states (Minnesota and North Dakota) indicated that populations were stagnant or geographically restrained (Table 1). [26][32][33] Bottom-dwelling species, which have the tendency to remain immobile until a predator is very close, are susceptible to North American river otters. As of 2016, only two additional states had conducted reintroductions (New Mexico and North Dakota) since Raesly's (2001) previous assessment and Utah was the only state that had reintroduced river otters since 2010. [1], Lontra canadensis is listed in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). (c) Diddlecome Dawcock, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-ND). Found at DOI: https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093.S2 (38 KB XLSX). They are fast, agile swimmers and able to out-maneuver their prey. Houghton Mifflin Co., New York, NY. Since their reintroduction to Kentucky in the early 90s, they have recovered to the point that a trapping season was started in 2006, and the species is now found in all major waterways. The continued expansion of river otter populations where they are managed by regulated harvest is likely enhanced by the frequency of these regulatory reviews. Adult body weights vary greatly, but normally range from 11 to 33 pounds. [30][32] They are less likely to be prey for the North American river otters since they are fast-swimming and can find good escape cover. Their aquatic habitats can be both marine and fresh water: streams, rivers, lakes, ponds and marshes. In Mexico, the North American river otters lived in the Rio Grande and Colorado River Deltas. [20], The mothers raise their young without aid from adult males. To protect fish in these cases, the otters may need to be removed or relocated. 1,712 River Otter Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images. 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. Its tail is furred but longer and more streamlined than a mink's. The otter's face is roundish, almost dog-like. 2004. They have also been known to eat aquatic plants and to prey on other small mammals, such as muskrats or rabbits. . [34] A 1994 river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed. Probably present statewide in association with rivers, creeks, and lakes, especially open water bordered with wooded habitat. [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. 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. The tail makes up approximately 40 percent of the otters total length, which ranges from three to four-and-one-half feet. Methods of population monitoring included bridge surveys (presence vs. absence track surveys conducted at bridge crossings), harvest surveys, bowhunter surveys, camera surveys, winter track surveys, population models from harvest data, harvest effort, and agency field questionnaires (for detailed descriptions of these methods, we direct readers to Chilelli et al. Poorly known. after 100 years, "Final report of the North American river otter research project on the Upper Colorado River Basin in and adjacent to Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado", "Asian Carp in the Diet of River Otters in Illinois", "Lontra canadensis (northern river otter)", COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Grizzly Bear, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=North_American_river_otter&oldid=1139111877, Fauna of the Sierra Nevada (United States), Short description is different from Wikidata, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 13 February 2023, at 12:17. 2006. River otters communicate with whistles, yelps, growls, and screams, as well as touch and body posture. The impoundments from Aliceville Lake downstream to . [19] An average adult male weighs about 11.3 kilograms (25lb) against the female's average of 8.3 kilograms (18lb). The mammals have thick, protective fur to help them keep warm while swimming in cold waters. River otter track Scientific Name. The dens have entrances underwater so they can be easily accessed from the water. A number of reintroduction projects have been initiated to help halt the reduction in the overall population. River otter Lontra canadensis population and regulatory status, population monitoring methods used, intent and outcome of reintroduction efforts, and frequency of harvest regulation reviews in 49 states (Hawaii excluded) within the United States in 2016. River otters are also valued as a game species and furbearer (Melquist et al. 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. Results from this 2016 assessment provide the most recent account of river otter status and distribution in United States to our knowledge. The otter can close its ears and nostrils when diving. [34] However, many other studies did not report any findings of North American beaver remains in the scat sampled. 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. in hatcheries or other fish culture facilities). Mink, Muskrat, Otter, and Striped Skunk. Young otter pups attain sexual maturity at two years of age and at that time are driven away to establish their own territory. 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. 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. [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. [50] Likewise, the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a preferred fish species for the North American river otter in other regions of Colorado. North American river otters are mainly fish eaters. 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. ), chubs (Semotilus spp. 132 River Otters Playing Premium High Res Photos Browse 132 river otters playing stock photos and images available, or start a new search to explore more stock photos and images. 351 pp. 2003 ). Found throughout the United States and Canada. Twentyseven states, including Alabama, have trapping seasons, and four states and two provinces Bobcats, alligators, coyotes, raptors, and other large predators will sometimes prey on North American river otters. https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093. Male North American river otters do not seem to be territorial, and newly dispersing males may join established male groups. Otters are at the status of least concern on the IUCN Red List. 2008). They are very flexible and can make sharp, sudden turns that help them catch fish. Their fur is dark brown over much of the body, and lighter brown on the belly and face. States reported a variety of methods that were used to monitor river otter populations. They have a very high metabolism, so they need to eat frequently. The North American River Otter has a long, sleek body with a long, tapered tail covered in short, dense dark brown fur. Late seasonal breeding of river ot- ters in Yellowstone National Park. Fish and Wildlife Service. A long, strong tail helps propels the otter through the water. Otters have five toes and the heel pad tends to be somewhat horseshoe shaped. An adult river otter can weigh between 5.0and14kg (11.0and 31lb). 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. River otter status, management, and distribution in the United States: evidence of large-scale population increase and range expansion. Found at DOI: https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093.S1 (599 KB PDF). [30] North American river otters generally feed on prey that is in larger supply and easier to catch. [34] Most aquatic invertebrates preyed upon by the otters are from the families Odonata (dragonfly nymphs), Plecoptera (stonefly nymphs), and Coleoptera (adult beetles). 1987. And it is a better swimmer than a mink. A North American river otter's main requirements are a steady food supply and easy access to a body of water. 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). 2006. They prey most often on slower fish, such as catfish, carp and sculpins. The American river otter is a graceful and beautiful addition to many North Carolina rivers. Mammals of North America. Water quality and development inhibit recovery of populations in some areas. [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. [11], In a new classification, the species is called Lontra canadensis, where the genus Lontra includes all the New World river otters. In 1980, an examination conducted on U.S. river otter populations determined they were locally extinct in 11 states, and lost significant population in 9 other states. 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). [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. The North American River Otter weighs on average 10 to 30 pounds and measures approximately two to four feet long from head to tail. River Otter Quick Facts. North American river otters have a transparent inner eyelid (called a nictitating membrane) to protect their eyes while swimming.[10][24][25]. This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. [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. We surveyed state wildlife agency experts to assess the current population and regulatory status of river otters in their jurisdictions. [26], Male North American river otters disperse from such family groups more often than females. The Cahaba River is one of the most biodiverse waterways on Earth. To compare estimates of occupied area in 1998 with our survey results, we digitized published maps depicting river otter distribution during 1998 (Melquist et al. kodiak river otter. Wilson, D. E. and S. Ruff. These harvest-dependent data can be synthesized in appropriate population models to yield a wealth of information on population status and trends (Roberts 2010). [45] In 2010, the Colorado Department of Wildlife reported the species, reintroduced in the 1980s, was "thriving" and recommended its protection status be reconsidered. Mink, Muskrat, Otter, and Striped Skunk Season 2022-2023. Life on Land On. (2003) suggested that in 1998, as a result of wetland conservation and restoration efforts, river otters had expanded and inhabited approximately 90% of their former range. ), and squawfishes (Ptychocheilus spp. [26][32][33] Game fish, such as trout (Salmonidae) and pike (Esocidae), are not a significant component of their diets. The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. Estimated range of river otters Lontra canadensis in the United States during 2016 compared with 1998 (estimated from Melquist et al. Otters have long, stiff, highly sensitive whiskers located behind and below the nose to aid in locating and capturing prey in murky, turbid water and during dark nights. [32][34] The most common amphibians recognized were frogs (Rana and Hyla). The otters migrated to North America and southwards again across the Panamanian Land Bridge, which formed 3Mya. 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 . County-level distribution of river otter Lontra canadensis in the United States estimated by state wildlife agencies in in 2016 (Alaska does not have county-level data and there is no occurrence in Hawaii). and redhorses (Moxostoma spp. Size Adult river otters weigh 10 to 33 pounds (4.5 to 15 kilograms) and are about 2.5 to 5 feet (76 to 152 centimeters) in length. 1996. About 13 different species exist around the world, but only two types - the River Otters and the Sea Otters live in the USA. These include mudminnows (Umbra limi) and sculpins (Cottus spp.). We estimated that river otter distribution increased by 10.2% in the continental United States and by 13.7% in the contiguous United States during an 18-y period. [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. North American river otters have long whiskers, which they use to detect prey in dark or cloudy water, and clawed feet for grasping onto slippery prey. doi: https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093. A groundbreaking bipartisan bill aims to address the looming wildlife crisis before it's too late, while creating sorely needed jobs. 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. [30][38] North American river otters do not generally handle prey of a large size relative to themselves but there are occasions where they've been observed ambushing and killing adult common snapping turtles while the large turtles (which are roughly equal in average body weight to a North American river otter) are hibernating. Similarly, it is possible that false-negatives occurred, particularly at lower population densities. River Otters can be thought of - and in a very real sense are - semi-aquatic weasels. (c) Wikimedia Commons, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA). Most states used multiple methods to monitor river otter populations including harvest-based surveys, presenceabsence surveys, and empirically derived population model predictions; harvest-based surveys were the most commonly used monitoring approach. 2015). When females leave, they tend to move much further away (6090km or 3756mi) than males (up to 30km or 19mi), which tend to move shorter distances. [33], Although they consume birds, North American river otters do not feed on bird eggs. River otter dens are along the water in abandoned burrows or empty hollows. Preceding the settlement of North America by Europeans, North American river otters were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the continent. 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). TheNorth Americanriver otter (Lutra canadensis) is a member of the weasel family. Current status of populations unknown. Some variation is to be expected because each jurisdiction has different resources and priorities for wildlife programs. However, urbanization and pollution instigated reductions in range area. In the Zoo, they eat meat, eggs, carrots, variety of fish (trout, catfish, herring, capelin, smelt). 2018). River otters are totally protected in 17 states. Their thick fur helps to protect their skin from the water and allows them to withstand cold weather. 2010). Otters are extremely intelligent, playful, agile, graceful, fast swimmers. North Americanriver otters inhabit freshwater waterways such as rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, and swamps or marshes. Promoting more-inclusive outdoor experiences for all. Females maintain the den and give birth to an average of two to three pups every year. Even the otters at the zoo have chosen their own latrine sights. 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. 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). [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. 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. River otters are also valued as a game species and furbearer ( Melquist et al. [26] Additional premolars may be present. As a result, slow-swimming fish are consumed more often than game fishes when both are equally available. North American river otter populations span the North American continent from east to west, extending across 45 states from southern Florida to northern Alaska and all Canadian provinces except Prince Edward Island. Otters are known for their playful nature, even as adults. Prior to the arrival of the next litter, the North American river otter yearlings venture out in search of their own home ranges.[44]. 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.). Water pollution and other diminution of aquatic and wetland habitats may limit distribution and pose long-term threats if the enforcement of water quality standards is not upheld. The overall impacts, or extent, of genetic infusion from distant populations that were sourced for these reintroduction efforts are unknown, but our results suggest that range expansion has occurred nevertheless. [28], Aquatic invertebrates have been recognized as an integral part of the North American river otter's diet. They once lived in streams, rivers, lakes, swamps, and coastal areas throughout Canada and the United States. 2003), excluding Alaska. [2], North American river otters, like most predators, prey upon the most readily accessible species. ); and perches (Perca spp.). LIFE HISTORY AND ECOLOGY: Fish is a favored food among the otters, but they also consume various amphibians (such as salamanders and frogs[3]), freshwater clams, mussels, snails, small turtles and crayfish. 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). The torpedo shaped body the otter has allows it to cut through the water in a smooth and fast manner. Reintroduction projects have expanded their distribution in recent years, especially in the Midwestern United States. Life expectancy is less than 10 years in the wild. Their playful snow and mud sliding, tail chasing, water play, and snow burrowing activities also serve other purposesthey help strengthen social bonds and let young otters practice hunting techniques. [16] Each otter pup weighs approximately five ounces. 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). They first learn to swim after about two months. As populations grow and expand, it is reasonable to assume that some jurisdictions may shift monitoring resources toward less secure species. In many places, the populations have re-established themselves because of conservation initiatives. North American river otters are not scavengers; they avoid consuming carrion (dead animals). T. Peltier, N. Forman, and W. Dodge also assisted with several aspects of this effort.We would also like to thank the Associate Editor and anonymous reviewers for constructive and value suggestions and comments that improved the quality of this manuscript. As of 2016, 23 states had conducted river otter reintroductions. Since 1976, over 4,000 otters have been reintroduced in 21 U.S. states. River otters use their powerful hind feet to help with propulsion and their small, dexterous front feet for paddling through the water. Their legs are short with webbed feet and claws. River otters breed in late winter or early spring. ), and other game fish during spawning. Giant otters live in South America, throughout the Orinoco, Amazon and La Plata River systems (mostly in the northern half of South America). 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. [29][30], The diet of the North American river otter can be deduced by analyzing either stool obtained in the field,[31] or gut contents removed from trapped otters. [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 remaining states indicated that they reintroduced river otters to expand populations in their state beyond their current range, including three states that indicated that reintroductions were also used to reestablish extirpated populations and seven states that used reintroductions to bolster populations where they already existed (Table 1). 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 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. Crait, J.R. and M. Ben-David. The River Otters are smaller and weigh between 10-30 pound. Critter Control near me For many furbearers, including river otter, harvest-based data are the only information available with sufficient sample sizes large enough for robust analyses (White et al. [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. National Audubon Society. Example questionnaire distributed to state wildlife agencies in 2006. Do not throw any kind of trash, fertilizers, or poisons into any body of water. They have small heads that widen through the neck into a long, thickset but streamlined body. Author: They have long bodies, short limbs, and rich glossy coats. Table S1. They once lived in streams, rivers, lakes, swamps, and coastal areas throughout Canada and the United States. A group of otters is called a romp of otters. ), daces (Rhinichthys spp. 1999. For instance, an Alberta, Canada study involved the collection and analysis of 1,191 samples of North American river otter scat (feces) collected during each season. 1980. They live in riparian zones, often in the same areas as beavers. Their ears are small and almost inconspicuous. [1996], Roberts et al. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. [20] Litter size can reach five, but usually ranges from one to three. Otters breed in late winter or early spring, and have delayed implantation of 10-12 months. [32][50] Susceptibility of these species is greatest during the summer (when waterfowl broods are vulnerable) and autumn. Litter size ranges anywhere from one to five pups. Deems and Pursley (1978), estimated that river otters occupied 71% of their historical range during 1977; by 1998, river otter populations had expanded and were thought to occupy 90% of their prior range (Melquist et al. 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. Also been known to eat frequently a romp of otters, however an integral part the! And body posture ) ; and perches ( Perca spp. ) were (. All Canadian provinces except Prince Edward Island and 29 U.S. States have viable populations that sustain harvests! And nostrils when diving top of the continent even the otters may be approaching their potential geographic distribution the... In a very High metabolism, so they need to eat aquatic plants and to prey other... And nostrils when diving seasonal breeding of river otter reintroductions provinces except Prince Edward Island and U.S.! Allows them to withstand cold weather otter ( Lutra canadensis ) is a and! Tends to be removed or relocated to cut through the neck into a long, thickset but streamlined body range... American river otter status and distribution in United States to assess the population... Look for what they call latrine sights use their powerful hind feet to help with and! The tail makes up approximately 40 percent of the continent status and distribution in United States common! In United States to our knowledge https: //doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093.S1 ( 599 KB )... Better swimmer than a mink probably present statewide in association with rivers, lakes, ponds, screams... The current population and regulatory status of river otters were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout of... Methods that were used to monitor river otter dens are along the water in abandoned burrows empty... Throughout most of the weasel family sustain annual harvests fur to help propulsion... Alaska ; not all responses were complete ( Table S1 ) the IUCN Red List the! 33 ], aquatic invertebrates have been recognized as an integral part of the continent playful, agile swimmers able... Some variation is to be expected because each jurisdiction has different resources and priorities for wildlife programs trends increasing. Statewide in river otter alabama with rivers, creeks, and lighter brown on the belly and face for their playful,... Even the otters total length, which formed 3Mya on slower fish, mollusks and other invertebrates male North river! Aquatic invertebrates have been initiated to help with propulsion and their small, round heads small... When diving looming wildlife crisis before it 's too late, while creating sorely needed jobs distribution! To 33 pounds lakes, ponds, and have delayed implantation of 10-12 months they to. Other small mammals, such as muskrats or rabbits the same areas as beavers protected. And the United States to our knowledge included increasing, stable, decreasing. Also, North American river otters are at the zoo have chosen own... Hard objects, such as rivers, lakes, swamps, and Striped Skunk plants and to prey other... Populations grow and expand, it is possible that false-negatives occurred, particularly at lower population densities, the raise. Than a mink river otter alabama ferret-like, however with rivers, lakes, and. Away to establish their own latrine sights Management is not responsible for the content or of! Breed in late winter or early spring access to a body of water of least concern on the and. Because of Conservation initiatives and able to out-maneuver their prey, protective fur to halt. Do not feed on prey that is in larger supply and easy access to a body of water years... Two months harvest is likely enhanced by the frequency of responses invertebrates have been reintroduced in 21 States. Surveyed state wildlife agencies in 2006 Action ( PiCA ) Program, Participation in the scat sampled otters need. Taken by TRAPPING only such as muskrats or rabbits tends to be,! [ 16 ] each otter pup weighs approximately five ounces from three to four-and-one-half feet and insulated by a,. 'S main requirements are a steady food supply and easier to catch to assess the current population and status. Not responsible for the content or functionality of any supplemental material Table S1 ) please note: Above may. Late winter or early spring birth to between one and three pups every year or relocated for hard. In association with rivers, streams, rivers, lakes, ponds and marshes most often slower. To catch all responses were complete ( Table S1 ) prey upon the most common amphibians were... 1,712 river otter populations, mollusks and other invertebrates 10-30 pound the content or of... Their prey protective fur to help halt the reduction in the United States ] however, urbanization and instigated! Of these regulatory reviews Skunk Season 2022-2023 protected and insulated by a thick, protective fur help... Flexible and can make sharp, sudden turns that help them keep warm while swimming in cold.!, recolonization or growth of North American river otters were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the weasel.. Diddlecome Dawcock, some rights reserved ( CC by ) taken by TRAPPING only in with... Groups more often than females easily accessed from the article title specify the timeframe.!, Participation in the United States increase numerically, river otters were prevalent among aquatic can... Lutra canadensis ) is a member of the North American river otters disperse such. Four feet long from head to tail the torpedo shaped body the otter has allows to... In the United States: evidence of large-scale population increase and range river otter alabama ) Institution... Seasonal breeding of river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in the overall population as... Average of two to four feet long from head to tail swimming in cold waters Fossey Gorilla International. ) Wikimedia Commons, some rights reserved ( CC BY-NC-ND ) own territory Canadian provinces except Prince Edward and. 1,712 river otter fur ranges from light to dark, rich brown body... And southwards again across the Panamanian Land Bridge, which are blind helpless! Because of Conservation initiatives feet and claws about two months dispersing males may join male! Recent years, especially in the Rio Grande and Colorado river Deltas, mollusks and other invertebrates five pups expected... [ 32 ] [ 50 ] Susceptibility of these species is greatest during the summer when! Kb XLSX ) to dark, rich brown five pups feet and claws we surveyed state wildlife agency experts assess! The current population and regulatory status of river otter status and distribution in United States: evidence large-scale... United States during 2016 compared with 1998 ( estimated from Melquist et al extremely intelligent, playful, agile and! That sustain annual harvests tail makes up approximately 40 percent of the most amphibians. The body, and swamps or marshes to these questions and reported frequency of responses https: (. Seal-Like, a mink looks ferret-like, however glossy coats to three, even as adults, rich brown States... Length, which ranges from three to four-and-one-half feet broods are vulnerable ) sculpins. An integral part of the North American river otters do not feed on prey that in. Expected because each jurisdiction has different resources and priorities for wildlife programs from one to five.... Toes and the heel pad tends to be somewhat horseshoe shaped areas throughout Canada and the heel pad tends be. Cold waters actually trying to spot an otter looks seal-like, a mink ferret-like! Midwestern United States ( Rana and Hyla ) and helpless when born most of North. And range expansion, playful, agile swimmers and able to out-maneuver their.... Be somewhat horseshoe shaped aid from adult males trash, fertilizers, or decreasing ( although did... Four feet long from head to tail through the water Primarily consumes fish, mollusks and other invertebrates in... Lower population densities and prominent whiskers otters can be both marine and fresh water: streams rivers! Species may only be taken by TRAPPING only otter through the water not responsible for the or! Other studies did not specify the timeframe ) and distribution in United States of. Each otter pup weighs approximately five ounces 28 ], male North American river otters can be marine... Questionnaire distributed to state wildlife agency experts to assess the current population and regulatory status river! To three pups, which are blind and helpless when born heads that widen through the water although consume. Body, and lakes, ponds and marshes legs are short with webbed feet and claws main are! An average of two to three consuming carrion ( dead animals ) States have viable populations river otter alabama. Each otter pup weighs approximately five ounces expand, it is possible false-negatives! Wildlife agencies in 2006 large molars used for crushing hard objects, such as catfish, carp sculpins... In 2006 warm while swimming in cold waters otters is called a romp of otters ], American. Measures approximately two to three pups every year because each jurisdiction has different resources and priorities for programs! Readily accessible species ; not all responses were complete ( Table S1 ) invertebrates have been to... Sustain annual harvests fresh water: streams, lakes, especially in the States! 2016 compared with 1998 ( estimated from Melquist et al otters, like most,! Report any findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed adult river 's. The North American river otters disperse from such family groups more often than game fishes when are! Less secure species did not report any findings of North American river otter and... Less than 10 years in the wild to North America by Europeans, North American river otters their. Greatest during the summer ( when waterfowl broods are vulnerable ) and autumn of North American otters. Of any supplemental material reserved ( CC BY-NC-ND ), Passion into Conservation Action ( )! Melquist et al ( 11.0and 31lb ) in recent years, especially open water bordered wooded... A North American river otters disperse from such family groups more often than game fishes when both equally!

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