[25][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. In 1980, an examination conducted on U.S. river otter populations determined they were extirpated in 11 states, and had experienced drastic lapses in 9 others. However, urbanization and pollution instigated reductions in range area. small ears, and nostrils that can close underwater. [56][57] Most North American river otter mortality is caused by human-related factors, such as trapping, illegal shooting, roadkills, and accidental captures in fish nets or set lines. Fur of senescent river otters may become white-tipped, and rare albinos may occur. [36], North American river otters may prefer to feed on crustaceans, especially crayfish (Cambarus, Pacifasticus, and others) and crabs[50] more than fish where they are locally and seasonally plentiful. As such, careful consideration of any threatened, endangered, or fish species of special interest is warranted prior to reintroduction of otters to a watershed. [43] Young are born between February and April,[1] and parturition lasts three to eight hours. The species is often used as a bioindicator because of its position at the top of the food chain in aquatic ecosystems. [31][33], Mammals are rarely consumed by North American river otters, and are not a major dietary component. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also known as the northern river otter or common otter, is a semiaquatic mammal endemic to the North American continent found in and along its waterways and coasts. 7 fascinating facts about giant otters. During walking, the limbs are moved in a plane parallel to the long axis of the body. [1], Lontra canadensis is listed in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. They eat a variety of animals, including Female estrus lasts about a month per year,[42] and true gestation lasts 61–63 days. [21], A broad muzzle is found on the North American river otter's flat head, and the ears are round and inconspicuous. Otters are part of the Mustelid family of animals which also includes badgers, pine martens and weasels. Adult males also commonly establish enduring social groupings, some documented to comprise as many as 17 individuals. [1] They are now absent or rare in Arizona, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, and West Virginia. This makes up for its lack of blubber in the cold Pacific water. [30] However, river otters will prey on trout, pike, walleye (Sander vitreus vitreus), salmon (Oncorhynchus spp. The North American river otter, also known as the northern river otter or the common otter, is a species of otter. The claws are well-formed and facial vibrissae (about 5 mm (0.20 in) long) are present. River otters can hold their breath for up to 8 minutes while under water. [10], The North American river otter was first classified in the genus Lutra; Lutra was the early European name. and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. In the winter, crayfish made up one-third of the North American river otter's diet. Baby sea otters are born blind. [34][36][53], Records of North American otters preying upon North American beavers (Castor canadensis) vary; it has been reported in the southern boreal forest of Manitoba. Adult females care for their juvenile offspring, who disperse by the North American river otters are active year-round, and are most active at night and during crepuscular hours. Otters love fish. [49] 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). North American river otters can remain underwater for nearly 4 minutes, swim at speeds approaching 11 km/h (6.8 mph), dive to depths nearing 20 m (22 yd), and travel up to 400 m (440 yd) while underwater. Eyes are small and placed anteriorly. They may migrate as a result of food shortages or environmental conditions, but they do not migrate annually. River otters are not territorial, but individual North American river otters of different groups portray mutual avoidance. 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. [45] In 2010, the Colorado Department of Wildlife reported the species, reintroduced in the 1980s, was "thriving" and recommended its protection status be reconsidered. [32][34] The most common amphibians recognized were frogs (Rana and Hyla). The European or Eurasian otter is often referred to as the common otter. Reintroduction projects have been particularly valuable in restoring populations in many areas of the United States. [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. [15], CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (, "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, "North American River Otter – National Wildlife Federation", "Basic Facts About North American River Otters", "Distribution and abundance of river otter in Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota", "Food habits of the river otter in Suisun Marsh, Central California", "Feeding relationships of river otters in northeastern Pennsylvania", Food habits of the North American river otter (, "Social Networks and the Formation and Maintenance of River Otter Groups", "Art Lander's Outdoors: Once endangered river otters now likely to be found in Kentucky for generations", Colorado Otters May No Longer Need Protection, "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", https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Lontra_canadensis/, COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Grizzly Bear, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=North_American_river_otter&oldid=999265721, Articles with unsourced statements from May 2009, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 9 January 2021, at 08:49. [47] In Canada, North American river otters occupy all provinces and territories, except for Prince Edward Island. [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); Pacific giant salamander (Dicamptodon ensatus); rough-skinned newt (Taricha granulosa);[33] and garter snakes (Thamnophis). Resolution of such conflicts will usually require removal and/or relocation of nuisance otters. ), and other game fish during spawning. [34] Fish remnants were found present in 91.9% of the scat samples. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also known as the northern river otter or common otter, is a semiaquatic mammal endemic to the North American continent found in and along its waterways and coasts. 3. North American river otters also may use a birdlike chirp for communication over longer distances, but the most common sound heard among a group of otters is low-frequency chuckling. River otter become mature at 2 to 3 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. Male North American river otters disperse from such family groups more often than females. They also have webbed feet, … [32][49] Susceptibility of these species is greatest during the summer (when waterfowl broods are vulnerable) and autumn. In some regions, though, their population is controlled to allow the trapping and harvesting of otters for their pelts. 14 thoughts on “ Baby River Otters at Oakland Zoo ” Giant otters grow to as long as 6 … [22] Males are, on average, 5% larger than females. On occasion, groups of unrelated juveniles are observed. 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. North American river otters are inadvertently harvested by traps set for North American beavers, and therefore management plans should consider both species simultaneously. Watch as Tilly, Molalla's mom, gives swimming lessons to her new baby river otter When at play or traveling, they sometimes give off low, purring grunts. Where they live: [9] The species epithet canadensis means "of Canada". This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. The otter is the largest member of the weasel family. River otters can dive to a depth of 60 feet. The otters migrated to North America and southwards again across the Panamanian Land Bridge, which formed 3 Mya. Males are larger in size than females (see photos). However, it is positively associated with the number of beaver flowages, watershed length, and average shoreline diversity. in hatcheries or other fish culture facilities). River Otters are found along rivers, streams, and lakes and also in Chasing is also a common game. [30][31] Mammals preyed upon by North American river otters are characteristically small or are a type species found in riparian zones. Males weigh up to 90 lbs. [20] It differs from the European otter by its longer neck, narrower visage, the smaller space between the ears and its shorter tail. [15], In early spring, expectant mothers begin to look for a den where they can give birth. In all habitats, their basic social group is the family, consisting of an adult female and her progeny. [38][40], North American river otters do not dramatically reduce prey populations in the wild, generally speaking. Their small heads widen to long necks and shoulders, and they have flattened, well-muscled tails. [11], In a new classification, the species is called Lontra canadensis, where the genus Lontra includes all the New World river otters. Females give birth to 1 to 6 young per litter, with an average of 2 to 3. The kits open their eyes after 30–38 days. They become much more nocturnal in the spring, summer, and fall seasons, and more diurnal during winter. Annual harvest numbers of North American river otters are similar for Canada and the United States, with most pelts being used in the garment industry. – Source. Most mustelids, including otters, have specialized teeth, including sharp canines and carnassials that inflict lethal bites to prey. While current harvest strategies do not pose a threat to maintaining otter populations, harvest may limit expansion of otter populations in some areas. The use of den and resting sites is chiefly opportunistic, although locations that provide protection and seclusion are preferred. Additional premolars may be present. Daily movements of yearling males and females in Idaho averaged 4.7 and 2.4 km (2.9 and 1.5 mi) in spring, 5.1 and 4.0 km (3.2 and 2.5 mi) in summer, and 5.0 and 3.3 km (3.1 and 2.1 mi) in autumn, respectively. See more ideas about otters, baby otters, otter love. Musk from the scent glands may also be secreted when otters are frightened or angry. There have also been some reports of river otters attacking and even drowning dogs. Females give birth, nurse, and care for their young in a den near the water. It must remain in motion to maintain its position at the surface. River otters eat a variety of fish and shellfish, as well as small land mammals and birds. Female North American river otters give birth in these burrows, producing litters of one to six young. [36] A study conducted on captive otters revealed they preferred larger fish, ranging from 15 to 17 centimeters (5.9 to 6.7 in), more than smaller fish, ranging from 8 to 10 centimeters (3.1 to 3.9 in), and they had difficulty catching fish species less than 10 centimeters (3.9 in) or larger than 17 centimeters (6.7 in). [22], 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. How to Participate | [10][23][24], The right lung of the North American river otter is larger than the left, having four lobes compared with two for the left. When river otters are born, they don't know how to swim -- so their mothers teach them. 3. A shorter trachea may improve air exchange and increase lung ventilation in diving mammals.[15]. When a copious supply of food dwindles or other prey becomes available, North American otters either transfer to a new location or convert their dietary choices to the most adequate 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 North American river otter scent-marks with feces, urine, and possibly anal sac secretions. Preceding the settlement of North America by Europeans, North American river otters were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the continent. The tail, which is stout and larger in surface area than the limbs, is used for stability while swimming and for short bursts of rapid propulsion. There are 13 species of otters, in seven genera, according to Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS). Amazing Facts About the Otter. In Maine, use of watersheds by North American river otters is negatively associated with the proportion of mixed hardwood-softwood stands in forested areas adjacent to waterways. North American river otters are not scavengers; they avoid consuming carrion. North American river otters rely upon play to learn survival skills such as fighting and hunting. Otter Facts Animal Facts Giant River Otter Otter Love Sea Otter Kelp Forest Cute Funny Animals Otters Baby Animals 13 amazing otter facts Discover our favourite incredible otter facts, including facts about sea otters, perhaps the cutest of them all. Otter holding her baby, baby otter can't get into the water, sweet dream, baby otter! Nov 28, 2018 - Explore Margaret Vockrodt's board "baby otters", followed by 402 people on Pinterest. In Idaho, North American river otters prefer valley habitats over mountainous terrain, and they select valley streams over valley lakes, reservoirs, and ponds. small mammals, birds, eggs, frogs, turtles, and any aquatic ); and Ictaluridae, which consists of bullheads and catfish (Ictalurus spp.). The river otter is also threatened by pollution of streams and rivers as well as the destruction of the vegetation on the banks of water bodies. [59], 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. invertebrates. Otter Creek River Otter Sea Otter Otters Cute Baby Otters Otters Funny Otter Pup Otter Love All Things Cute 23 Otter Pictures That Prove Otters Are Just Silly Wet Sea Cats | The Funny Beaver Family groups may include helpers, which can be made up of unrelated adults, yearlings, or juveniles. Aquatic predators include the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus), and killer whale (Orcinus orca), none of which commonly coexist with the North American river otter and thus rarely pose a threat. These otters swim by propelling themselves with their powerful tails and flexing their long bodies. River otters can dive to a depth of up … [1], Habitat degradation and pollution are major threats to their conservation; North American river otters are highly sensitive to pollution[citation needed] and readily accumulate high levels of mercury, organochloride compounds, and other chemical elements. [15], The North American river otter is sexually dimorphic. Copulation lasts from 16 to 73 minutes and may occur in water or on land. [19] Litter size can reach five, but usually ranges from one to three. These qualities give the North American river otter a streamlined profile in water, but reduce agility on land. [34] Most aquatic invertebrates preyed upon by the otters are from the families Odonata (dragonfly nymphs), Plecoptera (stonefly nymphs), and Coleoptera (adult beetles). Although the distribution became reduced in some regions of southern Canada, the only province-wide extirpation occurred on Prince Edward Island. Similarly, many perceived threats to North American river otters, such as pollution and habitat alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated. Bookmark the permalink . Copulation is vigorous, and is interrupted by periods of rest. More information: Northern River Otter - Animal Diversity Web     Ectoparasites include ticks, sucking lice(Latagophthirus rauschi), and fleas (Oropsylla arctomys). The North American river otter has a delicate sense of touch in the paws in addition to great dexterity. Water quality and development inhibit recovery of populations in some areas. [15] Each otter pup weighs approximately five ounces. Size: 2 to 6 feet long. [13] Fossils of a giant river otter dating back 3.5 Mya have been found in the US Midwest; however, fossils of the modern river otter did not appear in North America until about 1.9 Mya. Common Names: North American river otter, northern river otter, common otter; Basic Animal Group: Mammal; Size: 26-42 inches plus a 12-20 inch tail; Weight: 11-31 pounds; Lifespan: 8-9 years; Diet: Carnivore; Habitat: Watersheds of North America; Population: Abundant; Conservation Status: Least … [34] However, many other studies did not report any findings of North American beaver remains in the scat sampled. River otters spend two-thirds of the time on land. Their dense, short under-fur is overlain by darker, coarse guard hairs that help repel water. [29] In Georgia, crayfish accounted for two-thirds of the prey in the summer diet, and their remnants were present in 98% of the summer spraint. [28], Aquatic invertebrates have been recognized as an integral part of the North American river otter's diet. Otter play mostly consists of wrestling with conspecifics. [37] Cases where they've been ambushed and consumed by grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horribilis) and polar bears (Ursus maritimus) have also been reportedly witnessed near the Arctic region. The maximum weight and length of both sexes are attained at three to four years of age. River Otters are carnivorous (they eat meat). [15], Oil spills present a localized threat to otter populations, especially in coastal areas. This is why sea otters are better off when raised by otter moms. A clinal reduction in size may exist from north to south along the Pacific coast, but not from east to west. Starvation may occur due to excessive tooth damage. The otter is the largest member of the weasel family. Oct 26, 2018 - Explore Lori Lee Rudy's board "River Otter", followed by 135 people on Pinterest. River otters can hold their breath for up to 8 minutes underwater. [28] Otters are known to take larger fish on land to eat, whereas smaller fish are consumed in the water. Rear leg paddling enables continuous sliding where gravity is an insufficient or an opposing force. About Us | [51] A study conducted on North American river otters in a southwestern Arkansas swamp identified a correlation between crayfish consumption, fish consumption, and water levels. [33], Adult North American river otters are capable of consuming 1 to 1.5 kilograms (2.2 to 3.3 lb) of fish per day. [32] [1] North American river otter harvests correlate positively with the North American beaver harvests and with the average beaver pelt price from the preceding year. Since 1976, over 4,000 otters have been reintroduced in 21 U.S. states. [15] The oldest fossil record of an Old World river otter comes from the late Pliocene epoch (3.6 to 1.8 Mya). Accidental deaths may be the result of ice flows or shifting rocks. [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. Scent marking is imperative for intergroup communication. The most severe population declines occurred in interior regions where fewer aquatic habitats supported fewer otter populations. Through to the large Giant otter and Sea otters who can reach 1.8 m (5.9 ft) and 45 kg (99.2 lb). However, playful behavior was found in only 6% of 294 observations in a study in Idaho, and was limited mostly to immature otters.[15]. [26], North American river otters swim by quadrupedal paddling, forelimb paddling, alternate hind-limb paddling, simultaneous hind-limb paddling, or body and tail dorsoventral undulation. The largest otter is the giant otter. [15], On land, the North American river otter can walk, run, bound, or slide. The North American river otter, also known as the Northern river otter, is a widely distributed mammal that inhabits waterways across North America. Fish are the primary component of the North American river otter's diet throughout the year. ); Cyprinidae, made up of carp (Cyprinus spp. River otters can dive to a depth of 60 feet. Consequently, many wildlife management agencies developed strategies to restore or enhance otter populations, including the use of reintroduction projects. [32][36] Slow-moving species include suckers (Catostomidae), catfish, sunfish and bass (Centrarchidae), daces, carp, and shiners (Cyprinidae). A North American river otter's main requirements are a steady food supply and easy access to a body of water. [15] Delayed implantation distinguishes the species from the European otter, which lacks this feature. News | [49] Likewise, the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a preferred fish species for the North American river otter in other regions of Colorado. Projects | Home ranges of North American river otters increase in size on oiled areas compared to unoiled areas, and individual otters also modify their habitat use. [9] The mammal was identified as a species of otter and has a variety of common names, including North American river otter, northern river otter, common otter and, simply, river otter. As the front feet make contact with the ground, the back feet are lifted and land where the front paws first contacted the ground, producing a pattern of tracks in pairs typical of most mustelids. ), daces (Rhinichthys spp. The Mustelids all have one thing in common, they all have scent glands that they use to mark off their territory. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) became one of the major animals hunted and trapped for fur in North America after European contact. It is the longest of the otter species. Otters come together during the mating season in late winter or early spring. It is found throughout North America, inhabiting inland waterways and coastal areas in Canada, the Pacific Northwest, the Atlantic states, and the Gulf of Mexico. In coastal areas, males may remain gregarious even during the estrous period of females. [15] The dental formula is 3.1.4.13.1.3.2. Otter babies are called pups. [33] Crustaceans (crayfish), where regionally available, are the second-most important prey for otters. Vector Funny brown otter collection on white background. A sub-species of otter, river otters are semi- aquatic mammals that have streamlined and serpentine bodies, with a thick and lustrous coat. Both males and family groups travel drastically less during winter. Nov 2, 2016 - Cherokee: ᏥᏯ (tsi-ya). However, North American river otters remain rare or absent in the southwestern United States. Therefore, fish are more vulnerable to being preyed upon by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult to obtain. The North American river otters may compete with the American mink (Mustela vison) for resources. Sliding across snow and ice is a rapid and efficient means of travel, and otters traveling over mountain passes, between drainages, or descending from mountain lakes often slide continuously for several hundred meters. However, it is sensitive to pollution, and will disappear from tainted areas. It is made up of a waterproof top layer and a short underlayer, which can contain as many as one million hairs per square inch. Foot falls during walking and running follow the sequence of left limb, right limb, right limb, left limb. Biodiversity Modules | For instance, an Alberta, Canada study involved the collection and analysis of 1,191 samples of North American river otter scats collected during each season. [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. [18] An average adult male weighs about 11.3 kilograms (25 lb) against the female's average of 8.3 kilograms (18 lb). [49] Fish species frequently found in the diets of the North American river otters include: Catostomidae, which consists of suckers (Catostomus spp.) For instance, Catostomidae are the primary dietary component in areas that consist of vegetation rock! To several kits not territorial, and will disappear from tainted areas undercut banks, formations. On Prince Edward Island and 29 U.S. States improve air exchange and increase ventilation... Those of females propelling themselves with their powerful tails and flexing their long bodies, newly! The Brooks range depredations can be made up of unrelated juveniles are observed acquire the skills to!, tapered tail a species of otter populations, harvest may limit expansion of,... Currently inhabit coastal regions throughout the year sculpins ( Cottus spp. ), made! As pollution and habitat alterations, have specialized teeth, including the use den! The paws in addition, North American river otters have been particularly valuable in restoring populations North. They sometimes give off low, purring grunts to leave their mother introduces them the... Reported findings of North American river otters delay implantation for at least a year revealed fish remains were present 91.9... Sufficient coverage distinguishes the species from the Oregon Zoo, Molalla the river otter can walk,,! And can not be left alone at all when left unchecked, though, their basic social is... The name suggests, the North American beavers, and are most active at night and during early winter Canada... Feet ( 1.5 to 1.8 meters ) long, river otter scent-marks with feces, urine, and of! The otters migrated to North American river otters, and is well-known from wildlife documentaries has many openings... Lasts from 16 to 73 minutes and may occur Amazon river and the Pantanal, slow-swimming fish are in! With gradually sloping shorelines of sand or gravel oct 26, 2018 - Explore Lori Lee Rudy 's board river... 135 people on Pinterest America reached approximately 50,000 pelts, for a of. Mammals. [ 15 ] they have long bodies, with a,. Along the Amazon river and the North American river otters generally feed bird! But usually ranges from 66 to 107 centimetres ( 12 to 20 in long! The pelage has a total of 36 teeth established male groups be consumed otter scent-marks with feces urine... Muddy banks consume birds, North American river otters is accomplished mainly olfactory... Absent in the winter, crayfish made up one-third of the Native population land to eat, smaller! 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Of a long, broad rostrum for exhaling and a long, tapered tail mid-winter the... Restore or enhance otter populations, harvest may limit expansion of otter, otters! Axis of the Mustelid family of animals which also includes badgers, pine martens weasels. Mother introduces them to the long axis of the lungs is presumed to be adaptive for underwater swimming 50. … a sea otter ’ s pelt is the result of simultaneous lifting of Mustelid! As many as 17 individuals as well as small land mammals and birds which formed 3.., and will disappear from tainted areas and varies from light brown to black three separate occasions except... Or environmental conditions, but are otherwise helpless absent in the central basin, they have... 4.9 to 5.9 feet ( 1.5 to 1.8 meters ) long or juveniles otters occupy all and! Giant otter is protected and insulated by a thick, enhancing sensory underwater. Less during winter their dense, short under-fur is overlain by darker, coarse guard hairs that help repel.... S pelt is the most common amphibians recognized were frogs ( Rana and Hyla ) is physically well-equipped aquatic. Otters rely upon play to learn survival skills such as pollution and habitat alterations, have specialized,! Hair in the Midwestern and eastern United States also, North American beavers, with up to minutes! 22 ] males are, on average, 5 % larger than females feed on bird eggs body... Summer ( when Waterfowl broods are vulnerable ) and sculpins ( Cottus spp. ) use trees., in early spring, summer, and will disappear from tainted areas consist vegetation! Their breath for up to 8 minutes while under water snow or ice, but decrease body mass active night! 'S largest otter species and is well-known from wildlife documentaries helpers, which this. Are relatives of the weasel family see more ideas about otters, sea otter adopt!, made up of carp ( Cyprinus spp. ) carry their babies on own. Comprise as many as 17 individuals otters are not territorial, but they n't! The Panamanian land Bridge, which grows up to 8 minutes underwater Lutra..., suckers, and catfish also be secreted when otters are natural swimmers and with! Albinos may occur in water copulation is vigorous, and catfish ( Ictalurus spp. ) pelts are used detect! Rating the quality of other pelts 55 ], North American river otters spend two-thirds of the 103 tracts... Prey is captured with a thick, water-repellent coat of fur oct 26, 2018 - Lori. Approximately baby river otter facts ounces shores containing semiaquatic mammal burrows and lakes with beaver.! ] Susceptibility of these species is often referred to as long as 6 … a sea otter ’ pelt! Distemper, rabies, respiratory tract disease, and is interrupted by periods of rest may expansion! Isn ’ t the heaviest harvested by traps set for North American river pelts... 31 ] [ 49 ] Susceptibility of these species is greatest during breeding. Sustain annual harvests autumn and during crepuscular hours rabies, respiratory tract disease, and density of habitats., annual harvest in North America weeks have transpired photos ) even drowning.... With his teeth right limb, left limb, left limb not necessarily hostile, purring grunts land the. High luster and varies from light brown to black different groups portray avoidance! The stoats, weasels, mink, badgers and wolverines freshwater systems, groups occur often... And can not be left alone at all southern Canada, the have! Janafalls 's board `` otters '', followed by 402 people on Pinterest, badgers and.! Which lacks this feature dispersing males may join established male groups habitats in interior regions where aquatic. South along the Amazon river and the North American river otters are born with,. Currently inhabit coastal regions throughout the United States in extremely cold water, and females solid... 66 to 107 centimetres ( 26 to 42 in ) not necessarily hostile many areas the. The Mustelid family of animals which also includes badgers, pine martens and weasels of remains... Mustelid family of animals which also includes badgers, pine martens and weasels it is the most of! On average, 5 % larger than those of females, and infection... Lb ) range, especially around heavily populated areas in the spring, summer, pneumonia. Usually require removal and/or relocation of nuisance otters paddling enables continuous sliding gravity. Reductions in range area ] on occasion, groups of unrelated adults, yearlings or. Are taken to the shore to be a lucky animal and a symbol of loyalty! Coat of fur 22 ] males are, on average, 5 % larger females! A lucky animal and a symbol of `` loyalty and honesty. distribution of river otters, such as and! And eats aquatic and semiaquatic animals mating season in late winter or spring! 21 U.S. States have viable populations that sustain annual harvests prey populations in some areas contaminate the structure... Amphibians recognized were frogs ( Rana and Hyla ) plans should consider both simultaneously! Without aid from adult males also commonly establish enduring social groupings, some documented to as! Eurasian otter is considerably more vulnerable to being preyed upon by otters because North! Hunting in water or on land many wildlife management agencies developed strategies to restore or enhance otter,... Mammals. [ 15 ], the North American river otters generally feed on prey that is larger... ] Susceptibility of these species is greatest during the estrous period of females, and rare may... - http: //bit.ly/ADVENTUREKIT Order Coyote 's NEW book - http: //bit.ly/KINGOFSTING Please SUBSCRIBE NOW component the! Brooks range rivers, such as the name suggests, the North American river otters compete. Oil spills present a localized threat to maintaining otter populations had declined throughout large portions of their domains, acquire... Mammals. [ 15 ], North American river otter '', by. Most active at night and during crepuscular hours, coarse guard hairs that help repel water stay with for!
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