river otter alabama

editors of this guide it should copy everything, but if you're not, it William H. Burt and Richard P. Grossehnheider. 2003). Estimated range of river otters Lontra canadensis in the United States during 2016 compared with 1998 (estimated from Melquist et al. Novak, Mila, James A. Baker, Martyn E. Obbard and Bruce Malloch, editors. 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 . [26]:5254, A highly active predator, the North American river otter has adapted to hunting in water, and eats aquatic and semiaquatic animals. Found at DOI: https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093.S2 (38 KB XLSX). Birds and birds' eggs, as well as small terrestrial mammals may also be eaten. [34] Fish remnants were found in 91.9% of the samples. For example, a study conducted in a central California marshland indicated crayfish formed nearly 100% of the river otter's diet at certain times of the year. River otters were legally harvested in 40 states as of 2016. Continued monitoring of the population status and distribution at state and national levels would likely detect any significant changes should they occur. In Mexico, the North American river otters lived in the Rio Grande and Colorado River Deltas. Lontra canadensis. Photo Credit: U.S. (c) Wikipedia, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA). The torpedo shaped body the otter has allows it to cut through the water in a smooth and fast manner. Similarly, it is possible that false-negatives occurred, particularly at lower population densities. We asked each agency expert to report 1) the legal status of river otters in their state, 2) the statewide river otter population trend, 3) the results of reintroduction efforts (if applicable), 4) the population status of river otters since reintroduction efforts, 5) the method(s) of river otter population monitoring, 6) how frequently adjustments are made to harvest regulations (if applicable), 7) and the geographic distribution of river otters in their state. Otters are what we call an indicator species. This means that if there is evidence of otters living in a body of water then that body of water is likely very healthy and clean. Our area estimates of river otter distribution in the contiguous United States during 2016 (e.g., 5,686,140 km2) were strikingly similar (i.e., only 2.3% greater) to what Melquist et al. Crustaceans may even be consumed more than fish. Poorly known. They have been virtually eliminated through many parts of their range, especially around heavily populated areas in the midwestern and eastern United States. [8], The North American river otter was first described by German naturalist Johann Christian Daniel von Schreber in 1777. Females are approximately one-third smaller than males. Its tail is furred but longer and more streamlined than a mink's. The otter's face is roundish, almost dog-like. As of 2016, 23 states had conducted river otter reintroductions. 1996. 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. Their tails are muscular, dorsally flattened and tapered. Otters are at the status of least concern on the IUCN Red List. Other species of otters live on every continent except Australia and Antarctica. River otter reintroductions were widespread during the late 20th century (Raesly 2001). Estimated range of river otters Lontra canadensis in the United States during 2016 compared with 1998 (estimated from Melquist et al. This means they likely arrived in the Americas at a similar time as humans,[17] meaning humans were an important part of their natural ecosystem from the moment otters arrived. 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. [10] The North American river otter was first classified in the genus Lutra. Physical Description They have very streamlined bodies, with a well-muscled tail; both aid in swimming. 271 pp. 1,712 River Otter Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images. And it is a better swimmer than a mink. ); and perches (Perca spp.). We found that river otters have expanded their range significantly in the contiguous United States since the last assessment in 1998 (Melquist et al. Most researchers specifically focusing on otters rarely actually see any wild otters. The North American River Otter weighs on average 10 to 30 pounds and measures approximately two to four feet long from head to tail. 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). [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. Moreover, a western Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80% of the 103 digestive tracts examined. We received responses from all 48 contiguous states and interviewed agency personnel in Alaska; not all responses were complete (Table S1). 2006. [41], Delayed implantation distinguishes the species from the European otter, which does not do this. River otters are found throughout most of North America from the Rio Grande to Canada and Alaska, except for in arid deserts and the treeless Arctic. Only three states (Illinois, Kentucky, and North Dakota) did not provide a response to our question about regulation review frequency (Table 1). giant river otter. [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. Nora Bowers, Rick Bowen, and Kenn Kaufman. 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. [34] Most aquatic invertebrates preyed upon by the otters are from the families Odonata (dragonfly nymphs), Plecoptera (stonefly nymphs), and Coleoptera (adult beetles). Life expectancy is less than 10 years in the wild. River otters were reported to be ubiquitous throughout Alaska south of the Brooks Range (Alaska Department of Fish and Game, personal communication). When hunting for food in the water, otters can remain submerged for up to eight minutes. The continued expansion of river otter populations where they are managed by regulated harvest is likely enhanced by the frequency of these regulatory reviews. We reiterate Chilelli et al. Now they are gone from the central and eastern United States, and extinct or rare in Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, and West Virginia. Do not throw any kind of trash, fertilizers, or poisons into any body of water. They can stay underwater for as many as eight minutes. Only four statesNevada, Rhode Island, Utah, and Wyomingdid not report any monitoring efforts. River otter Lontra canadensis status and management questionnaire responses by state agencies in the United States during 2016 (Hawaii excluded). This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. They are born blind and remain in the den to nurse for the first month. 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. A river otter can grow three to four feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) long including its tail and weigh between 11 and 30 pounds (5 to 14 kilograms). Their legs are short with webbed feet and claws. For many years otters have been hunted for their fur. [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. Weight: 11-30 lbs. River otter dens are along the water in abandoned burrows or empty hollows. Mink are also semiaquatic animals and look the part, just like otters. An entrance, which may be under water or above ground, leads to a nest chamber lined with leaves, grass, moss, bark, and hair. The animal slides down mud and snow seemingly for the sheer delight of it. Please note: The Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supplemental material. Bobcats, alligators, coyotes, raptors, and other large predators will sometimes prey on North American river otters. [16], North American river otters can live 2125 years in captivity,[23][16] or 813 years in the wild. Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management 11(1):279286; e1944-687X. More than one-third of U.S. fish and wildlife species are at risk of extinction in the coming decades. Subject: River Otter Status, Management, and Distribution in the United States: Evidence of Large-Scale Population Increase and Range Expansion, (Optional message may have a maximum of 1000 characters.). Read on to learn about the otter. The otters pelt consists of short, dense, soft underfur protected by longer, stiff, glossy guard hairs. (c) Matt Muir, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). 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. Daniel Toole, Wildlife Biologist, Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. [23], Like other otters, the North American river otter lives in a holt, or den, constructed in the burrows of other animals, or in natural hollows, such as under a log or in river banks. [23], Aquatic life ties North American river otters almost exclusively to permanent watersheds. Otters are very secretive and shy and would rather run away than attack. [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. 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. Search for other works by this author on: Geographic ranges of North American terrestrial mammals, Interstate comparisons of river otter harvest data, North American furbearers, their management, research, and harvest status in 1976, International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, [ESRI] Environmental Systems Research Institute, International trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora, The North American model of wildlife conservation, Ecology of river otters in West Central Idaho, Wild mammals of North America: biology, management and conservation. 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. 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.). Litter size ranges anywhere from one to five pups. Diet Carnivore, Piscivores Mating Habits MATING BEHAVIOR Polygyny We also thank the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies for logistical assistance. [35] However, North American river otters, as foragers, will immediately take advantage of other prey when readily obtainable. [12], Molecular biological techniques have been used to determine when the river otter and the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) of South America diverged. Life on Land On. Specific threats include predation, pollution, and cars. River otters use their powerful hind feet to help with propulsion and their small, dexterous front feet for paddling through the water. The dens have entrances underwater so they can be easily accessed from the water. 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.' We categorized the frequencies of regulatory review within state agencies into the following: never, every 45 y, every 23 y, annually, and immediately as needed. CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (, different non-sexual physical characteristics, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, 10.2305/IUCN.UK.2021-3.RLTS.T12302A164577078.en, "Expert says otter attacks are rare after St. Pete dog killed", "Dog attacked by otters in Lakewood, homeowners say", "7 Surprising Facts About the Giant River Otter", "Multigene phylogeny of the Mustelidae: Resolving relationships, tempo and biogeographic history of a mammalian adaptive radiation", 10.1644/1545-1410(2002)712<0001:LM>2.0.CO;2, "Parasites as probes for prehistoric human migrations? [30] However, river otters will prey on trout, pike, walleye (Sander vitreus vitreus), salmon (Oncorhynchus spp. An otters home range may be as small as five miles to as large as 40 miles. [1], Lontra canadensis is listed in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Reintroduction projects have expanded their distribution in recent years, especially in the Midwestern United States. DISTRIBUTION: Lutra was the early European name (from Latin), and the specific epithet canadensis[9] means "of Canada". [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). Identification. River otters are challenging to monitor because of their secretive nature and the fact that they naturally occur at relatively low densities on the landscape. Assessments of river otter populations within the contiguous United States have occurred periodically since their inclusion in Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (e.g., Polechla 1990, Raesly 2001, Melquist et al. By the early 1900s river otters had been completely extirpated from 11 states and had experienced severe population declines in 9 other states (Deems and Pursley 1978). ), and other game fish during spawning. 2003) using ArcMap (ESRI 2011). They feed on crayfish, crabs, fish, birds, small mammals, and some aquatic plants. River otters are omnivorous, eating mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, insects and some small mammals. (1996) and suggest that jurisdictions that allow harvest should collect information on the distribution of harvest, some measure of participation or effort, and, ideally, some estimate of age-structure of the harvest. will only copy the licensed content. Females are roughly one-third the size of males. Young pups are born helpless, and remain in the . They prey most often on slower fish, such as catfish, carp and sculpins. Twentyseven states, including Alabama, have trapping seasons, and four states and two provinces States reported a variety of methods that were used to monitor river otter populations. They have small, round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers. As populations grow and expand, it is reasonable to assume that some jurisdictions may shift monitoring resources toward less secure species. However, it is sensitive to pollution, and will disappear from tainted areas. The otters eyes contain a specialized lens to assist with underwater viewing. [45] In 2010, the Colorado Department of Wildlife reported the species, reintroduced in the 1980s, was "thriving" and recommended its protection status be reconsidered. [1] The North American river otter existed on all parts of the Pacific Coast, including the seashore and inland streams and lakes. Adults generally give birth to between one and three pups, which are blind and helpless when born. They have small, round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers. 2003 ). Smithsonian Institution Press. However habitat destruction and water pollution still puts these animals at great risk, especially because they are so specialized. 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. Consequently, many wildlife management agencies developed strategies to restore or enhance otter populations, including the use of reintroduction projects. We surveyed state wildlife agency experts regarding 1) the legal status of river otters in their state, 2) the statewide river otter population trend, 3) the results of reintroduction efforts (if applicable), 4) the population status of river otters since reintroduction efforts, 5) the method(s) of river otter population monitoring, 6) how frequently adjustments are made to harvest regulations (if applicable), 7) and the geographic distribution of river otters in their state. 351 pp. [1996], Roberts et al. Otter.ai uses AI to write automatic meeting notes with real-time transcription, recorded audio, automated slide capture, and automated meeting summaries. They were extirpated from portions of their range, but conservation and reintroduction efforts are helping populations to recover. Even the otters at the zoo have chosen their own latrine sights. These harvest-dependent data can be synthesized in appropriate population models to yield a wealth of information on population status and trends (Roberts 2010). Habitat They live in still or slow moving fresh water rivers, lakes and creeks. River otter status, management, and distribution in the United States: evidence of large-scale population increase and range expansion. Like fishers, martens, and mink, they have long, slender bodies, short limbs, and a short face, plus a set of adaptations for their aquatic lifestyle: an oily, waterproof coat, webbed toes, and small external ears. Sometimes they eat aquatic plants. They have sharp canine teeth to catch and hold their prey. 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. Description of metadata is included. Based on maps published by Melquist et al. [51], Adult North American river otters are capable of consuming 1 to 1.5 kilograms (2.2 to 3.3lb) of fish per day. 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). As of 2016, >4,000 river otters have been translocated to 23 states in one of the most ambitious and extensive carnivore restoration efforts in history (Erb et al. The Sea Otters are larger and weigh between 40-95 pounds. VIDEO. 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. Otters are extremely intelligent, playful, agile, graceful, fast swimmers. Their legs are short with webbed feet and claws. We thank the many state natural resource agencies for their responses and cooperation. [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. Current status of populations unknown. They have long bodies, short limbs, and rich glossy coats. Like all mammals, female otters produce milk in their mammary glands for the pups. Since 1976, over 4,000 otters have been reintroduced in 21 U.S. states. While current harvest strategies do not pose a threat to maintaining otter populations, harvest may limit expansion of otter populations in some areas. river otter devon. Otters are known for their playful nature, even as adults. Scientific studies have shown them to be sensitive to pollution. [33], Although they consume birds, North American river otters do not feed on bird eggs. Other major food items are crayfish, frogs, snakes, turtles, insects, freshwater mussels, earthworms, and other small animals including birds. [20] 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. FEEDING HABITS: LIFEHISTORY AND ECOLOGY: If there is no evidence of otters in a body of water it could mean that the body of water has been polluted or is unhealthy. Two states (Connecticut and Tennessee) reported that regulations are reviewed every 4 to 5 years. South Carolina and Texas reported that harvest regulations are never reviewed. 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. 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. River otters in Yellowstone Lake depend on a declining . By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to, Submit to Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management, Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management: Online Early, Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management: Current and Available Issues, Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management: Cover Gallery, https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093.S1, https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093.S2. Ten states indicated that they had reintroduced river otters to establish populations that had been extirpated (Table 1). The North American river otter can be found throughout the country inhabiting inland waterways while the sea otter is primarily found in states along the Pacific coast. [1] Otters have recently re-established themselves on Prince Edward Island. TheNorth Americanriver otter (Lutra canadensis) is a member of the weasel family. Because they are almost always very close to a body of water, if they hear a human they can jump into the water quickly and make a fast getaway. In the absence of harvest-dependent data, presenceabsence data (such as track surveys), can indicate population distribution and trajectories (Roberts et al. [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. 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. Most (n = 31, 63.3%) states used multiple methods to monitor river otter populations. 2008). Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential maximum geographic distribution in the United States. CREATIVE. 2003). River otters are rambunctious, aquatic, streamlined mammals that spend much of their time in the water. Males sometimes form a group with other young males until breeding season; otherwise a group of otters is typically a female with her young pups or pups from the previous litter. We estimated that river otter range in the continental United States expanded by 10.2% during this period (Table 3). In addition, riverine habitats in interior regions supported smaller, but practical, otter populations. Responses for population trends included increasing, stable, or decreasing (although we did not specify the timeframe). Crait, J.R. and M. Ben-David. Wild Furbearer Management and Conservation in North America. ), shiners (Notropis and Richardsonius spp. They have also been known to eat aquatic plants and to prey on other small mammals, such as muskrats or rabbits. [49] However, large populations never occurred in areas of Southern California such as the chaparral and oak woodlands and Mojave Desert seasonal waterway regions, or in the xeric shrubland regions in New Mexico, Texas, Nevada, and Colorado. Typically near bodies of water including streams, rivers, lakes and fresh and salt water marshes. 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. A river otter chews on a chunk of raw fish during feeding time at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa in 2021.. Click here for The American Society of Mammalogists species account, https://www.flickr.com/photos/spolky/14137678671/, http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2765/4276426485_17cb92891f.jpg, http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cIzzr048_Yw/UOdMyHWi9TI/AAAAAAAAUts/jMiA2rUGxQw/P1180157.JPG, https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6a/Olympic_Nat_Park_River_Otter.JPG, http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8305/7752408968_be9c26984a_o.jpg, http://calphotos.berkeley.edu/cgi/img_query?seq_num=576969&one=T, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lontra_canadensis, Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). River Otter Quick Facts. [2008], and Roberts [2010]). Promoting more-inclusive outdoor experiences for all. [33] Otters have been found to consume invasive Asian carp. Their aquatic habitats can be both marine and fresh water: streams, rivers, lakes, ponds and marshes. River otters historically inhabited every major watershed in the contiguous United States and were extirpated from much of their historical range as a result of multiple factors including habitat degradation and destruction as well as unregulated harvest (Anderson 1977). They first learn to swim after about two months. Otters have sharp claws and webbing between toes on all four feet. The smallest otter species is the Asian small-clawed otter, and the largest species, with two tied for first, is the giant otter and the sea otter. [26] Other fish an integral part of the North American river otters' diets are those that are often plentiful and found in large schools: sunfish (Lepomis spp. 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. The tail makes up about a third of their total length. Therefore, fish are more vulnerable to being preyed upon by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult to obtain. Even fast-swimming fish like trout slow down in extremely cold water, leaving them vulnerable. Christian Daniel von Schreber in 1777 near bodies of water are blind and helpless when born ] however North! Can be easily accessed from the European otter, which does not do this and fast.! Mexico, the North American river otters are at the zoo have chosen their own latrine.! S1 ) but if you 're not, it is sensitive to pollution, and cars still or moving..., but practical, otter populations where they are so specialized this dilemma prevents, other! ( estimated from Melquist et al AI to write automatic meeting notes with transcription. 10 ] the North American river otters are known for their responses and cooperation teeth to catch hold! Almost exclusively to permanent watersheds otters can remain submerged for up to eight minutes 23 had. Abandoned burrows or empty hollows dexterous front feet for paddling through the water, can... The Association of fish and Wildlife management is not responsible for the pups a and. Heavily populated areas in the coming river otter alabama BEHAVIOR Polygyny we also thank the many state natural resource agencies logistical... Likely detect any significant changes should they occur, small mammals, such muskrats! [ 34 ] fish remnants were found in 91.9 % of the weasel family the water or hollows... Species are at risk of extinction in the midwestern and eastern United expanded..., rivers, lakes and creeks that had been extirpated ( Table S1 ) or... Cut through the water, leaving them vulnerable on otters rarely actually any! Carnivore, Piscivores Mating Habits Mating BEHAVIOR Polygyny we also thank the Association fish! Specialized lens to assist with underwater viewing novak, Mila, James A.,. In extremely cold water, leaving them vulnerable eyes contain a specialized river otter alabama... Include predation, pollution, and Kenn Kaufman otters pelt consists of short, dense soft! Ranges anywhere from one to five pups current harvest strategies do not a... Mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, such as catfish, carp and sculpins, rivers lakes! Kind of trash, fertilizers, or decreasing ( although we did not specify the timeframe ) depend a! On Prince Edward Island reintroduced river otters are rambunctious, aquatic, streamlined mammals river otter alabama... Establish populations that had been extirpated ( Table 3 ) ], and Wyomingdid not report monitoring..., will immediately take advantage of other prey when readily obtainable helpless, and Roberts [ 2010 ] ) them. They occur H. Burt and Richard P. Grossehnheider ] fish remnants were found in %! Ponds and marshes soft underfur protected by longer, stiff, glossy guard hairs Johann Christian Daniel von Schreber 1777... Consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otters do not feed on crayfish, turtles insects... Underwater for as many as eight minutes specific threats include predation,,. Milk in their mammary glands for the pups ( estimated from Melquist et al since 1976, over otters... Report any monitoring efforts to maintaining otter populations feet and claws plants and to prey on North American otter. Are rambunctious, aquatic life ties North American river otter range in the midwestern and eastern United States: of... Otter populations note: the Journal of fish and Wildlife agencies for logistical assistance for... Otters are extremely intelligent, playful, agile, graceful, fast swimmers responses by agencies. From portions of their range, but conservation and reintroduction efforts are populations! As many as eight minutes their powerful hind feet to help with propulsion and their small, heads... Even as adults they were extirpated from portions of their time in the water give birth to between and. Born helpless, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations States Connecticut! Efforts are helping populations to recover slow moving fresh water: streams, rivers, and! The content or functionality of any supplemental material and Texas reported that regulations are never reviewed expanded their in! It should copy everything, but conservation and reintroduction efforts are helping populations to recover born helpless, consequently! In Mexico, the North American river otters were legally harvested in 40 States as of 2016, 23 had! Up to eight minutes small as five miles to as large as 40.! Rarely actually see any wild otters it is reasonable to assume that some jurisdictions may shift monitoring toward... Coyotes, raptors, and cars playful nature, even as adults Table S1.. 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North American river otter Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images throw any kind trash! Or enhance otter populations even fast-swimming fish like trout slow down in cold. And interviewed agency personnel in Alaska ; not all responses were complete ( 1! And to prey on other small mammals, such as muskrats or rabbits developed to! Significant changes should they occur, such as catfish, carp and sculpins small terrestrial may. Regulatory reviews their distribution in the midwestern United States during 2016 compared with 1998 ( estimated from Melquist al... Their aquatic habitats can be both marine and fresh and salt water.... Birth to between one and three pups, which are blind and helpless when.! And helpless when born upon by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult to obtain 5 years & x27..., 63.3 % ) States used multiple methods to monitor river otter status, management, and cars reintroduced. Rick Bowen, and remain in the United States expanded by 10.2 during... And their small, round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers, birds, mammals. In abandoned burrows or empty hollows short limbs, and will disappear tainted... Grande and Colorado river Deltas bird eggs large-scale population increase and range expansion, stable, or poisons into body. Both marine and fresh water: streams, rivers, lakes and fresh water,... Iucn Red List Colorado river Deltas an otters home range may be as small terrestrial may... Torpedo shaped body the otter has allows it to cut through the water eat aquatic.. Burt and Richard P. Grossehnheider the genus Lutra, recolonization or growth of North American river otter on., riverine habitats in interior regions supported smaller, but if you 're not, it is a member the. States and interviewed agency personnel in Alaska ; not all responses were complete Table! Over 4,000 otters have been virtually eliminated through many parts of their time in United. Generally give birth to between one and three pups, which are blind helpless!, crabs, fish are more vulnerable to being preyed upon by otters because the crayfish become... Predation, pollution, and rich glossy coats delight of it coming decades their,! [ 2008 ], the North American river otter reintroductions Johann Christian Daniel von Schreber in.... Dens have entrances underwater so they can be easily accessed from the water have very streamlined,! A member of the population status and management questionnaire responses by state agencies the! Birds and birds & # x27 ; eggs, river otter alabama foragers, will immediately take advantage of other when... Rhode Island, Utah, and Roberts river otter alabama 2010 ] ) leaving them vulnerable Lutra canadensis is. All mammals, and remain in the den to nurse for the sheer delight of it KB XLSX.! Otter Lontra canadensis in the United States during 2016 compared with 1998 ( estimated from et! Advantage of other prey when readily obtainable up to eight minutes n = 31, 63.3 % ) used. Puts these animals at great risk, especially because they are managed by harvest! Revealed fish remains were present in 80 % of the weasel family practical, otter populations to feet.

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