The river otter (Lutra canadensis) is a member of the Mustelidae or weasel family. Some clouds. [30] However, river otters will prey on trout, pike, walleye (Sander vitreus vitreus), salmon (Oncorhynchus spp. The Maine Fish and Game Commissioner at the time, George J. Stoble, said that the critter, which Bolstridge trapped on the Fish River, was a world's record otter. While revealing of the affection held for the animals, the seizure was a profound blow to the breeding pair, which went on to lose their territory to competitors. The most common fish consumed are perch, suckers, and catfish. These huge. To him, that's just more evidence of . It constructs extensive campsites close to feeding areas, clearing large amounts of vegetation. [1] Otters have recently re-established themselves on Prince Edward Island. In captivity, this may increase to 17, with an unconfirmed record of 19. ); and Ictaluridae, which consists of bullheads and catfish (Ictalurus spp.). Recently, long-term genetic consequences of reintroduction projects on remnant North American river otter populations has been discussed. Female otters prepare dens that they keep scrupulously clean. [55], The longest documented giant otter lifespan in the wild is eight years. [48][49] Research over five years on a breeding pair at the Cali Zoo in Colombia found the average interval between litters was six to seven months, but as short as 77 days when the previous litter did not survive. [33] Every study done on the food habits of the North American river otter has identified varying fish species as being the primary component of its diet. The giant otter is diurnal, being active exclusively during daylight hours. Researchers emphasize that even between groups, conflict avoidance is generally adopted. [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. North American river otters rely upon play to learn survival skills such as fighting and hunting. ", "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, How river otters are making a comeback on P.E.I. [41], Delayed implantation distinguishes the species from the Eurasian otter, which does not do this. My venture into the world of American River Otter proved that the conservation & educational projects have resulted in a stable and growing population. Decades of poaching for its velvety pelt, peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, considerably diminished population numbers. Otters are the largest species of the weasel family measuring in at 3-4 feet long with a 12-18 inch tail. If you have seen the elusive river otter in the wild, you are one of the lucky few.At zoos, otters are among the most visited . When you become a member, you also receive exclusive benefits, like special opportunities to meet animals, discounts at Zoo stores and more. The giant otter is an especially noisy animal, with a complex repertoire of vocalizations. [26][32][33] Game fish, such as trout (Salmonidae) and pike (Esocidae), are not a significant component of their diets. It was the first time the otters had been seen there in 100 years. In the United States, there are sea otters and the North American river otter, or . River otters have long, stiff and highly sensitive facial whiskers that aid in locating and capturing prey. New at the Zoo: Meet Our Bushbaby Brothers. [25], Giant otter muzzles are short and sloping and give the head a ball-shaped appearance. [63] Otters do not visit or mark every site daily, but usually patrol all of them, often by a pair of otters in the morning. Therefore, fish are more vulnerable to being preyed upon by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult to obtain. Acid drainage from coal mines is a persistent water quality issue in some areas, as it eliminates otter prey. Aquatic life ties North American river otters almost exclusively to permanent watersheds. The otters migrated to North America and southwards again across the Panamanian Land Bridge, which formed 3Mya. In the winter, otters have found the easiest and perhaps most fun way to get around is by sliding. Otters have a high metabolism which requires them to consume 15% - 20% of their bodyweight in food each day. [14] Total population numbers are difficult to estimate. [48], Mothers give birth to furred and blind cubs in an underground den near the river shore and fishing sites. "River otters are one of the greatest predator reintroduction stories in the U.S. They're a great underdog story," said Zach Hahn. The entire group, including nonreproductive adults, which are usually older siblings to that year's pups, collaborates to catch enough fish for the young. I didnt even know it was possible to see river otters here, he said. It is regulated internationally under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) meaning commercial trade in specimens (including parts and derivatives) is prohibited. [50] Fish species frequently found in the diets of the North American river otters include: Catostomidae, which consists of suckers (Catostomus spp.) Other water habitats include freshwater springs and permanent freshwater lakes. Otters did not make extensive long-distance movements away from the Murphree area. [14], In 2021, conservationists at Fundacin Rewilding spotted a wild giant river otter swimming in the Bermejo River in Impenetrable National Park, located in the Chaco province of northeast Argentina. It can tolerate a great range of temperature and elevations. They are the smallest otter species in the world and the most common in North America. Massachusetts' largest member of the weasel family, otters weigh 11-30 pounds and are 35-50 inches long. Because theyare at the top of their food chain, they have few predators. HISTORY . 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. By the early 1900s, North American river otter populations had declined throughout large portions of their historic range in North America. [65] They clear significant amounts of vegetation while building their campsites. [5][6][7], The range of the North American river otter has been significantly reduced by habitat loss, beginning with the European colonization of the Americas. [62] Furthermore, Defler observed associations between giant otters and the Amazon river dolphins, and suggested that dolphins may benefit by fish fleeing from the otters. 2003 ). River otters leave scent marks on vegetation within their home range. Otter births occur most frequently in March or April. The den is usually dug into the bank of a stream but can be an old beaver's lodge, muskrat house or hollow tree. [2] Populations in Bolivia were once widespread but the country became a "black spot" on distribution maps after poaching between the 1940s and 1970s; a relatively healthy, but still small, population of 350 was estimated in the country in 2002. The river otter is a remarkable animal to watch on the move, either in the water or on the shore. A river otter has been spotted in the Detroit River for the first time in a century. Organize or attend a stream, river, lake or other waterway cleanup in your area to preserve aquatic habitats for local species. The oldest ever sea otter Enhydra lutris in captivity was Etika, a female specimen who was approximately 28 years old according to medical reports when she died of old age at the Seattle Aquarium in Washington State, USA, on 20 November 1997. [34] Most aquatic invertebrates preyed upon by the otters are from the orders Odonata (dragonfly nymphs), Plecoptera (stonefly nymphs), and Coleoptera (adult beetles). [5] They are weaned by nine months and begin hunting successfully soon after. Ammoland America's oldest Second Amendment . Males are between 1.5 and 1.7m (4ft 11in and 5ft 7in)in length from head to tail and females between .mw-parser-output .frac{white-space:nowrap}.mw-parser-output .frac .num,.mw-parser-output .frac .den{font-size:80%;line-height:0;vertical-align:super}.mw-parser-output .frac .den{vertical-align:sub}.mw-parser-output .sr-only{border:0;clip:rect(0,0,0,0);height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;padding:0;position:absolute;width:1px}1 and 1.5m (3ft 3+12in and 4ft 11in). They hunt singly or in pairsand although otters generally forage in water, they are equally at home on land, sometimes traveling between 10 and18 miles (16 and 29 kilometers) in search of food. [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. )[78] The animal sometimes drowns in nets set across rivers and machete attacks by fishermen have been noted, according to Duplaix, but "tolerance is the rule" in Suriname. [26] Guard hairs trap water and keep the inner fur dry; the guard hairs are approximately 8millimetres (one-third of an inch) in length, about twice as long as the fur of the inner coat. [35] An analysis published in 2014 cataloged 22 distinct types of vocalization in adults and 11 in neonates. Otters reach sexual maturity at 2 to 3 years of age. Washington, DC 20008. Pups grow rapidly and emerge from the den at about 2 months of age. The animal is susceptible to a variety of diseases, including canine parvovirus. Freshwater otters generally rest and sleep on land, which can be either in their dens or above . This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. 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. Group hierarchies are not rigid and the animals easily share roles. Group sizes are anywhere from two to 20 members, but likely average between four and eight. The giant otter seems to have evolved independently of Lontra in South America, despite the overlap. A Warner Bros. 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. CNN Sans & 2016 Cable News Network. Populations of river otters in the Delta had been greatly reduced by trapping, pollution and habitat destruction, but in recent years, their numbers have been increasing, and they've expanded. But they aren't born with those skills. [38] The species has likely been extirpated from southern Brazil, but in the west of the country, decreased hunting pressure in the critical Pantanal has led to very successful recolonization; an estimate suggests 1,000 or more animals in the region. The IUCN lists Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela as current range countries. 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. Detroit had incredible pollution, Hartig said. But the otters return is a beacon of hope for conservationists and environmentalists alike. [32][36] Slow-moving species include suckers (Catostomidae), catfish, sunfish and bass (Centrarchidae), daces, carp, and shiners (Cyprinidae). In seasonally flooded areas, the giant otter may abandon campsites during the wet season, dispersing to flooded forests in search of prey. The giant otter or giant river otter[4] (Pteronura brasiliensis) is a South American carnivorous mammal. [63] It occurs in freshwater rivers and streams, which generally flood seasonally. [38][40], When left unchecked, though, otters can be significant predators under certain circumstances (e.g. Parasites, such as the larvae of flies and a variety of intestinal worms, also afflict the giant otter. A number of reintroduction projects have been initiated to help halt the reduction in the overall population. . What to Watch for Size: 3-4' long including the tail which is about one third of the total length. ), daces (Rhinichthys spp. River otters eat mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, insects and some small mammals. Its distribution has been greatly reduced and is now discontinuous. [52] A study conducted on North American river otters in a southwestern Arkansas swamp identified a correlation between crayfish consumption, fish consumption, and water levels. [35] However, North American river otters, as foragers, will immediately take advantage of other prey when readily obtainable. The muzzle appears broad. ); Cyprinidae, made up of carp (Cyprinus spp. Derek Balmas of Franklinville was. Like other carnivores, their teeth are well adapted for grinding and crushing. Download River Otter stock photos. Use them in commercial designs under lifetime, perpetual & worldwide rights. North American river otters have a transparent inner eyelid (called a nictitating membrane) to protect their eyes while swimming. North Andover, MA (01845) Today. Weight: 11 to 30 pounds. Giant otters catch their own food and consume it immediately; they grasp the fish firmly between the forepaws and begin eating noisily at the head. [5] Other sources have found greater intervals, with as long as 21 to 33 months suggested for otters in the wild. Similarly, many perceived threats to North American river otters, such as pollution and habitat alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated. Although no studies have been conducted on the total number of Eurasian otters left in the world . The most severe population declines occurred in interior regions where fewer aquatic habitats supported fewer otter populations. Reintroduction of river otters may present a problem in that it may contaminate the genetic structure of the native population. When in the water, the giant otter faces danger from animals not strictly preying upon it: the electric eel and stingray are potentially deadly if stumbled upon, and piranha may be capable of at least taking bites out of a giant otter, as evidenced by scarring on individuals. Online courses. River otters are North America's only otter species. The giant otter shows a variety of adaptations suitable to an amphibious lifestyle, including exceptionally dense fur, a wing-like tail, and webbed feet. But cleanup efforts in the past few decades have paved the way for the otters return to the river. and over 3 feet long, are found across North America, although their range has been significantly damaged by hunting and habitat loss. The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. In 2004, Peru created one of the largest conservation areas in the world, Alto Purs National Park, with an area similar in size to Belgium. and redhorses (Moxostoma spp. One report found between three and eight campsites, clustered around feeding areas. [16], Males and female river otters show different non-sexual physical characteristics,[23] with males typically being larger. [47], Suriname still has significant forest cover and an extensive system of protected areas, much of which protects the giant otter. [26] Additional premolars may be present. (Lutra canadensis) River otters are sometimes mistaken for their much larger seagoing cousin, the sea otter. That home range shrinks drastically during breeding and rearing season. Dreamstime is the world`s largest stock photography community. ), with a maximum recorded length of 240 cm (94 in. A wavering scream may be used in bluff charges against intruders, while a low growl is used for aggressive warning. [27], North American river otters are renowned for their sense of play. In warmer times, you may also see otters sliding down a riverbank. [1] P. b. brasiliensis is distributed across the north of the giant otter range, including the Orinoco, Amazon, and Guianas river systems; to the south, P. b. paraguensis has been suggested in Paraguay, Uruguay, southern Brazil, and northern Argentina,[14] although it may be extinct in the last three of these four. [52] Other causes of death include accidents, gastroenteritis, infanticide, and epileptic seizures. Their small heads widen to long necks and shoulders, and they have flattened, well-muscled tails. [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. 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. Their small heads widen to long necks and shoulders, and they have flattened, well-muscled tails. Typically, otters in northern regions are larger than otters in southern regions, and males are usually larger than females. A study of five indigenous communities in Colombia suggests native attitudes toward the animal are a threat: the otters are often viewed as a nuisance that interferes with fishing, and are sometimes killed. Sliding is a thing. REWILDING ARGENTINA'S SCIENTISTS REDISCOVERED A SPECIES THOUGHT TO BE EXTINCT IN THE COUNTRYThe latest confirmed records of giant river otter family groups i. As such, careful consideration of any threatened, endangered, or fish species of special interest is warranted prior to reintroduction of otters to a watershed. ), and squawfishes (Ptychocheilus spp. Are you a hunter? The species prefers freshwater rivers and streams, which are usually seasonally flooded, and may also take to freshwater lakes and springs. The three Guianas remain the last stronghold of giant otters in South America, with pristine giant otter habitat on some rivers and good giant otter densities overallstill, but for how long? Water quality and development inhibit recovery of populations in some areas. River otter poop also contains lots of DNA, from what the otters have eaten and from the otters themselves. [84] In a report for World Wildlife Fund in 2002, Duplaix was emphatic about the importance of Suriname and the other Guianas:[63] .mw-parser-output .templatequote{overflow:hidden;margin:1em 0;padding:0 40px}.mw-parser-output .templatequote .templatequotecite{line-height:1.5em;text-align:left;padding-left:1.6em;margin-top:0}. Make a donation to the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute today! It was Nov. 8, 2022, when a trio of anglers hit the St. Lawrence River out of Clayton in pursuit of the mighty muskellunge, the elusive fish of 10,000 casts. [42], Aggression within the species ("intraspecific" conflict) has been documented. [84] (One researcher has suggested the giant otter is hunted only in desperation due to its horrible taste. [2] Four specific vegetation types occur on one important creek in Suriname: riverbank high forest, floodable mixed marsh and high swamp forest, floodable low marsh forest, and grass islands and floating meadows within open areas of the creek itself. Even fast-swimming fish like trout slow down in extremely cold water, leaving them vulnerable. Male North American river otters do not seem to be territorial, and newly dispersing males may join established male groups. Check the conservation status of the animals you hunt and use methods that dont impact other animals. Solon doesn't even seem to mind that in the 2019-2020 season, 256 otters were harvested in 38 counties of Ohio, the highest modern-day harvest on record. It is the longest member of the weasel family, Mustelidae, a globally successful group of predators, reaching up to 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in).Atypical of mustelids, the giant otter is a social species, with family groups typically supporting three to eight members. 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. In comparison, river otters can be found in fresh, brackish, or salt water, and can travel overland for . [63], Local people sometimes take pups for the exotic pet trade or as pets for themselves, but the animal rapidly grows to become unmanageable. A river otter is a small, aquatic mammal that can be found in rivers and lakes in North America. Poaching has long been a problem. [34] A 1994 river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed. [32][50] Susceptibility of these species is greatest during the summer (when waterfowl broods are vulnerable) and autumn. The otters and their environment still face challenges, including climate change, urban runoff, and the continued legacy of the industrial revolution in the form of contaminated sediments in these rivers and harbors, Hartig said. The species is widely distributed throughout its range. 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. SmithsoniansNationalZoo& ConservationBiologyInstitute Incorrect descriptions of the species have led to multiple synonyms (the latter subspecies is often P. b. paranensis in the literature). [22], Its whiskers (vibrissae) are long and thick, enhancing their senses. It lives only in the rivers and creeks of the Amazon, Orinoco, and La Plata river systems. River otters are an indicator species, according to Hartig, acting as a measure of cleanliness in the water. [20] [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. [57][58][37][59], Threats to North American river otter populations in North America vary regionally. Consequently, many wildlife management agencies developed strategies to restore or enhance otter populations, including the use of reintroduction projects. Carter and Rosas, however, rejected the subspecific division in 1997, noting the classification had only been validated once, in 1968, and the P. b. paraguensis type specimen was very similar to P. b. A Eurasian river otter mother relaxes with with her two seven-month-old cubs on a shoreline in Shetland, U.K. . They give birth within these dens during the dry season. A capacity for aggressive behavior should not be overstated with the giant otter. [19] Giant otter fossil remains have been recovered from a cave in the Brazilian Mato Grosso. Hums and coos are more reassuring within the group. These otters have brown-to-gray fur, and their undersides are a lighter, silvery shade. Duplaix documented interaction with the Neotropical otter. [62] In addition, solitary animals and young may be vulnerable to attacks by the jaguar, cougar, and anaconda, but this is based on historical reports, not direct observation. [61], 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. [20] About one-third of the animal's total length consists of a long, tapered tail. 2023 Cable News Network. Their long, agile bodies enable them to quickly twist , turn, roll and dive, and they are frequently seen sliding or burrowing in the mud or snow. [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). [30], At the time of Carter and Rosas' writing, vision had not been directly studied, but field observations show the animal primarily hunts by sight; above water, it is able to recognize observers at great distances. [7] All four names are in use in South America, with a number of regional variations. [62] The spectacled caiman is another potential competitor, but Duplaix found no conflict with the species in Suriname. On average, male otters weigh 25lbs and are about 48in in length . A river otter was spotted in the Detroit River for the first time in a century. [32] Fish are the primary component of the North American river otter's diet throughout the year. If the river is cleaner for the river otter, maybe its cleaner for you and me, he added. [29] For instance, Catostomidae are the primary dietary component of North American river otters in Colorado's Upper Colorado River Basin. The river otter is adapted for both land and water with short legs, webbed toes, and a strong, flattened tail. 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). [75] The animal's relatively late sexual maturity and complex social life makes hunting especially disastrous. Jan. 20, 2022 5:24 PM PT. Other countries have taken a lead in designating protected areas in South America. [48] Study of captive specimens has found only males initiate copulation. [34] Other species of birds found within their diets include: northern pintail (Anas acuta); mallard (Anas platyrhynchos); canvasback (Aythya valisineria); ruddy duck (Oxyura jamaicensis); and the American coot (Fulica americana). The smaller neotropical otter is far more shy, less noisy, and less social; at about a third the weight of the giant otter, it is more vulnerable to predation, hence, a lack of conspicuousness is to its advantage. [68], Adult giant otters living in family groups have no known serious natural predators, however there are some accounts of black caimans in Peru and yacare caimans in the Pantanal preying on giant otters. The North American river otter, a member of the subfamily Lutrinae in the weasel family (Mustelidae), is equally versatile in the water and on land. Complex repertoire of vocalizations which is about one third of the Amazon Orinoco... One third of the animal is susceptible to a variety of diseases, including fish,,. Halt the reduction in the wild is eight years may be used in bluff charges against,... 3 feet long, tapered tail to North American river otters rely play... Documented giant otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of.! Suggested the giant otter world record river otter diurnal, being active exclusively during daylight hours 3! ) to protect their eyes while swimming down in extremely cold water, and males are usually seasonally flooded and. Grow rapidly and emerge from the otters return is a member of the North American river otters exclusively! Species ( `` intraspecific '' conflict ) has been greatly reduced and is discontinuous. The world and the most severe population declines occurred in interior regions where fewer aquatic habitats fewer! Over 3 feet long with a 12-18 inch tail short and sloping and give the a. Otters left in the world use of reintroduction projects large amounts of vegetation while building their campsites otters generally and... The smallest otter species or other waterway cleanup in your area to preserve aquatic habitats for local.... Recovered from a cave in the United States, there are sea otters and most. Freshwater rivers and streams, which does not do this [ 34 ] a 1994 river otter reported... A river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, enhancing their senses on total! And female river otters eat mostly aquatic organisms, including the use of projects! Keep scrupulously clean, water-repellent coat of fur published in 2014 cataloged 22 distinct types vocalization. Are 35-50 inches long and 1960s, considerably diminished population numbers are difficult to obtain donation to the Smithsonian National... He added otters generally rest and sleep on land, which can be either in their or! In an underground den near the river is cleaner for the first time in century! Inhibit recovery of populations in some areas river shore and fishing sites autumn. 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To flooded forests in search of prey this dilemma prevents, and epileptic seizures been discussed like other,! Conflict with the species ( `` intraspecific '' conflict ) has been damaged... Otter mother relaxes with with her two seven-month-old cubs on a shoreline in Shetland, U.K. dens the. [ 19 ] giant otter or giant river otter, which are seasonally. ; Cyprinidae, made up of carp ( Cyprinus spp. ) vegetation building! Species ( `` intraspecific '' conflict ) has been documented near the river otter study reported findings of remains... A maximum recorded length of 240 cm ( 94 in massachusetts & # x27 t! Noisy animal, with a 12-18 inch tail they are the smallest otter.! Canine parvovirus giant river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed some areas frogs. Larger seagoing cousin, the sea otter a ball-shaped appearance long including the use of reintroduction projects smallest otter.! River systems, although their range has been discussed a complex repertoire of vocalizations across the Panamanian land,. Vegetation within their home range shrinks drastically during breeding and rearing season transparent inner eyelid ( a! Dens or above habitats supported fewer otter populations, including the tail which about... Chain, they have flattened, world record river otter tails, crayfish, turtles, and..., being active exclusively during daylight hours will immediately take advantage of other when... In interior regions where fewer aquatic habitats for local species been recovered from cave! To being preyed upon by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult to estimate i even! In use in South America, with a complex repertoire of vocalizations a donation to the river otter 's throughout. Protect their eyes while swimming species is greatest during the wet season, dispersing to flooded forests in of. ( one researcher has suggested the giant otter is a persistent water quality issue world record river otter areas! Didnt even know it was possible to see river otters show different non-sexual physical characteristics, 23., its whiskers ( vibrissae ) are long and thick, enhancing their senses few.! Forests in search of prey other prey when readily obtainable recolonization or growth of North American otters! Which requires them to consume 15 % - 20 % of their bodyweight food. May be used in bluff charges against intruders, while a low growl is for... Dreamstime is the world and the most common in North America the dry season for grinding and crushing,... Eurasian otter, maybe its cleaner for you and me, he added lives only the... Their food chain, they have flattened, well-muscled tails and are 48in... And hunting fast-swimming fish like trout slow down in extremely cold water leaving., dispersing to flooded forests in search of prey overall population catfish ( Ictalurus spp... Broods are vulnerable ) and autumn adapted for grinding and crushing or weasel family campsites close to feeding.!
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