2630 Cahaba Road Otters are at the status of least concern on the IUCN Red List. (c) Biodiversity Heritage Library, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). They have short legs, webbed feet for faster swimming, and a long, narrow body and flattened head for streamlined movement in the water. 132 River Otters Playing Premium High Res Photos Browse 132 river otters playing stock photos and images available, or start a new search to explore more stock photos and images. Acid drainage from coal mines is a persistent water quality issue in some areas, as it eliminates otter prey. Twenty-two states reported increasing populations while 25 reported stable populations. You can copy this taxon into another guide. However habitat destruction and water pollution still puts these animals at great risk, especially because they are so specialized. Otters have sharp claws and webbing between toes on all four feet. CREATIVE. Jurisdictions that have harvest are afforded more monitoring opportunities through harvest-dependent data sources, such as catch-per-unit effort, distribution of harvests, and sex and age-structure of harvests. [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. They are fast, agile swimmers and able to out-maneuver their prey. 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. River otter Lontra canadensis populations in the United States have expanded during the past 50 y as a result of improvements in habitat quality and effective management programs implemented by state and federal agencies and native tribes. The continued expansion of river otter populations where they are managed by regulated harvest is likely enhanced by the frequency of these regulatory reviews. 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. A river otter chews on a chunk of raw fish during feeding time at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa in 2021.. https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093. [28] [41], Delayed implantation distinguishes the species from the European otter, which does not do this. In the winter, crayfish made up one-third of the North American river otter's diet. Potential responses concerning legal status included regulated harvest, no harvest, state threatened, or state endangered. A member of the weasel family, otters are semiaquatic animals that feed on insects, fish, amphibians, small reptiles, and shellfish. They live in riparian zones, often in the same areas as beavers. In addition, riverine habitats in interior regions supported smaller, but practical, otter populations. [12], Molecular biological techniques have been used to determine when the river otter and the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) of South America diverged. 1980. [16] The dental formula is 3.1.4.13.1.3.2. River otters were legally harvested in 40 states, while closed harvest seasons existed in 9 states; Arizona, California, Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming (Table 1). They are fast, agile swimmers and able to out-maneuver their prey. River otters are omnivorous, eating mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, insects and some small mammals. The Birmingham Zoo is an independent, not for profit, 501 (c) (3) organization. Chanticleer Press, Inc. 937 pp. Specific threats include predation, pollution, and cars. Typically near bodies of water including streams, rivers, lakes and fresh and salt water marshes. [20] Litter size can reach five, but usually ranges from one to three. Identification. [27], North American river otters are renowned for their sense of play. [58][59][37][60], Threats to North American river otter populations in North America vary regionally. ); and perches (Perca spp.). Houghton Mifflin Co., New York, NY. Reintroduction projects have expanded their distribution in recent years, especially in the Midwestern United States. STATUS: The North American River Otter has a long, sleek body with a long, tapered tail covered in short, dense dark brown fur. beaver river otter. (2003) suggested that in 1998, as a result of wetland conservation and restoration efforts, river otters had expanded and inhabited approximately 90% of their former range. Responses for population trends included increasing, stable, or decreasing (although we did not specify the timeframe). North American river otters were hunted and trapped extensively for their fur in the 19th and 20th centuries, and are still hunted in some places. (2003) suggested as potential' range in their 1998 assessment of 5,556,200 km2. Otters are extremely intelligent, playful, agile, graceful, fast swimmers. Lontra canadensis. 2003), excluding Alaska. (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. The Ontario Trappers Association, 1150 pp. A river otter's expected lifespan is up to 12 years.. In some regions, though, their population is controlled to allow the trapping and harvesting of otters for their fur. TheNorth Americanriver otter (Lutra canadensis) is a member of the weasel family. [30] However, river otters will prey on trout, pike, walleye (Sander vitreus vitreus), salmon (Oncorhynchus spp. [46] In late 2012, a river otter nicknamed Sutro Sam took up residence around the former site of the Sutro Baths in San Francisco, the first river otter sighting in that city in more than half a century. Mink, Muskrat, Otter, and Striped Skunk Season 2022-2023. Twentyseven states, including Alabama, have trapping seasons, and four states and two provinces Otters are very secretive and shy and would rather run away than attack. 2003). Based on this 2016 survey, 22 states reported increasing populations, 25 states reported stable populations, and 2 states (Arizona and Washington) reported an uncertain population trend (Table 1). Reintroduction projects have been particularly valuable in restoring populations in many areas of the United States. 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. However, improvements in water quality (through enactment of clean water regulations) and furbearer management techniques have permitted river otters to regain portions of their range in many areas. ); and Ictaluridae, which consists of bullheads and catfish (Ictalurus spp.). Reintroduction of river otters may present a problem in that it may contaminate the genetic structure of the native population.[1]. Therefore, fish are more vulnerable to being preyed upon by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult to obtain. [26] Additional premolars may be present. According to WTMJ-TV, the Milwaukee County Zoo in Milwaukee shared the news . Predators: Include the bobcat, coyote and birds of . Also, North American river otters have large molars used for crushing hard objects, such as the shells of molluscs. Photo Credit: U.S. [51], Adult North American river otters are capable of consuming 1 to 1.5 kilograms (2.2 to 3.3lb) of fish per day. A long, strong tail helps propels the otter through the water. ), shiners (Notropis and Richardsonius spp. [23], Aquatic life ties North American river otters almost exclusively to permanent watersheds. The impoundments from Aliceville Lake downstream to . Otter pelts range from a rich dark brown (almost black) to a pale chestnut on the back and sides and light brown mixed with varying amounts of gray on the belly. [38][40], When left unchecked, though, otters can be significant predators under certain circumstances (e.g. The otters migrated to North America and southwards again across the Panamanian Land Bridge, which formed 3Mya. [32] Fish are the primary component of the North American river otter's diet throughout the year. [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. Results from this 2016 assessment provide the most recent account of river otter status and distribution in United States to our knowledge. 2020. They are born blind and remain in the den to nurse for the first month. [29][30], The diet of the North American river otter can be deduced by analyzing either stool obtained in the field,[31] or gut contents removed from trapped otters. Note: Above species may only be taken by TRAPPING ONLY. 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. [42][43], In early spring, expectant mothers begin to look for a den where they can give birth. Crait, J.R. and M. Ben-David. [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. The torpedo shaped body the otter has allows it to cut through the water in a smooth and fast manner. North Americanriver otters are typically social animals except during spring when the female drives the male away to give birth. Other major food items are crayfish, frogs, snakes, turtles, insects, freshwater mussels, earthworms, and other small animals including birds. The most common fish consumed are perch, suckers, and catfish. Questions concerning river otter reintroductions assessed the purpose(s) (e.g., reestablish extirpated populations, bolster existing populations, or expand river otter range beyond current distributions) and outcomes (e.g., expanding, stagnant or geographically restrained, decreasing, or unknown) of reintroduction efforts. Since inclusion under Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, the U.S. North American river otters also inhabit the forested regions of the Pacific coast in North America. While current harvest strategies do not pose a threat to maintaining otter populations, harvest may limit expansion of otter populations in some areas. This reach of the Alabama River is located within a 30-minute drive of hotels, restaurants, service stations, and grocery stores in Monroeville, Grove Hill, and Jackson. this appendix subjects river otters to international restrictions and state/province export quotas because of their resemblance to European Otters. This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential geographic distribution in the United States. Their gestational period can last anywhere from two months to one year, as otters are capable of delayed implantation. 351 pp. Second edition, Otters: an action plan for their conservation, Status of river otter reintroduction projects in the United States, Enhancing furbearer management in New York State. [48], Historical records indicate North American river otters were once populous throughout most major drainages in the continental United States and Canada prior to European settlement. River otters line their dens with leaves, moss, and grass. States reported a variety of methods that were used to monitor river otter populations. However, North American river otters remain rare or absent in the southwestern United States. Their fur is dark brown over much of the body, and lighter brown on the belly and face. The North American River Otter weighs on average 10 to 30 pounds and measures approximately two to four feet long from head to tail. Of the remaining 37 states; 24 states reviewed regulations promptly or annually and 10 states reviewed harvest regulations in cycles of 23 y; Michigan reported that regulations are reviewed every 2 to 3 years and promptly as needed (Table 1). River otters communicate with whistles, yelps, growls, and screams, as well as touch and body posture. 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 also thank the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies for logistical assistance. 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. River otter fur ranges from light to dark, rich brown. Methods of population monitoring included bridge surveys (presence vs. absence track surveys conducted at bridge crossings), harvest surveys, bowhunter surveys, camera surveys, winter track surveys, population models from harvest data, harvest effort, and agency field questionnaires (for detailed descriptions of these methods, we direct readers to Chilelli et al. Mating season depends on the latitude in which the otter was born. River otters are totally protected in 17 states. [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). River otters eat a variety of aquatic wildlife, such as fish, crayfish, crabs, frogs, birds eggs, birds and reptiles such as turtles. North American river otters can close their nostrils to keep water out during long dives. River otters can be found swimming all over in the state's creeks, lakes and ponds. 1999. [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. Given the large extent of the species' range, we were limited to county-level inference. The remaining states indicated that they reintroduced river otters to expand populations in their state beyond their current range, including three states that indicated that reintroductions were also used to reestablish extirpated populations and seven states that used reintroductions to bolster populations where they already existed (Table 1). River otters were reported to be ubiquitous throughout Alaska south of the Brooks Range (Alaska Department of Fish and Game, personal communication). Still these animals are commercially harvested: 20,000 - 30,000 are taken annually for their lustrous fur.Links:Mammal Species of the WorldClick here for The American Society of Mammalogists species account, (c) Discover Life and original sources, some rights reserved (CC-BY-NC-SA). We tallied responses to these questions and reported frequency of responses. Mink, Muskrat, Otter, and Striped Skunk. You will often see an otter swimming for a distance up a river, popping its head out to look in your direction. [61] Appendix II lists species that are not necessarily threatened with extinction currently, but may become so unless trade is closely controlled. 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). The playful North American river otter is well adapted for semi-aquatic living. Based on our survey, river otters were harvested in 40 states during 2016. [15][16] The New World river otters originated from the Old World river otters following a migration across the Bering Land Bridge, which existed off and on between 1.8million and 10,000 years ago. (c) 2013 California Academy of Sciences, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). 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. 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? Only four statesNevada, Rhode Island, Utah, and Wyomingdid not report any monitoring efforts. 2006. [36] A study conducted on captive otters revealed they preferred larger fish, ranging from 15 to 17 centimeters (5.9 to 6.7in), more than smaller fish, ranging from 8 to 10 centimeters (3.1 to 3.9in), and they had difficulty catching fish species less than 10 centimeters (3.9in) or larger than 17 centimeters (6.7in). [34] Most aquatic invertebrates preyed upon by the otters are from the families Odonata (dragonfly nymphs), Plecoptera (stonefly nymphs), and Coleoptera (adult beetles). 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. Daniel Toole, Wildlife Biologist, Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Similarly, many perceived threats to North American river otters, such as pollution and habitat alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated. Description of metadata is included. About 13 different species exist around the world, but only two types - the River Otters and the Sea Otters live in the USA. [1], Lontra canadensis is listed in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Queries should be directed to the corresponding author for the article. (2003), we estimated that during 1998, river otters occupied approximately 6,736,558 km2nearly 65% of the land area of the contiguous United Statesand that the potential river otter range was 7,485,065 km2. [50] Likewise, the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a preferred fish species for the North American river otter in other regions of Colorado. North American river otters rely upon play to learn survival skills such as fighting and hunting. River otters are also valued as a game species and furbearer (Melquist et al. Wild Furbearer Management and Conservation in North America. Melquist et al. We surveyed state wildlife agency experts to assess the current population and regulatory status of river otters in their jurisdictions. Catch-per-unit effort, population models, and presence vs. absence indices, such as bowhunter surveys and track surveys, were used less frequently (Table 1). We contacted wildlife management agencies from all states in the contiguous United States during 2016 via email (Figure S1, Supplemental Material), and Alaska via phone, targeting agency personnel that were responsible for river otter management. [32][34] The most common amphibians recognized were frogs (Rana and Hyla). In the past, their soft and attractive fur could be sold for a decent amount of money. The Otter is having a snack as it swims by . October 29 - February 28. Nora Bowers, Rick Bowen, and Kenn Kaufman. 1987. Moreover, a western Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80% of the 103 digestive tracts examined. [4] Occasional reports also show the river otter eating other small animals, such as mice, squirrels, birds, and even dogs that they've attacked and drowned. Life on Land On. 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. ); Cyprinidae, made up of carp (Cyprinus spp. A North American river otter's main requirements are a steady food supply and easy access to a body of water. Our survey indicated that <50% of the river otter reintroductions implemented in the United States were in areas where otters had been extirpated. Native Habitat Weight: 11-30 lbs. [34] Fish remnants were found in 91.9% of the samples. 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. [21] It differs from the European otter by its longer neck, narrower visage, the smaller space between the ears and its shorter tail. The cessation of wide-scale reintroduction activities may suggest that the majority of suitable habitats are currently occupied by established river otter populations. [32][50] Susceptibility of these species is greatest during the summer (when waterfowl broods are vulnerable) and autumn. Otters have five toes and the heel pad tends to be somewhat horseshoe shaped. 2008). Fish and Wildlife Service. [29] For instance, Catostomidae are the primary dietary component of North American river otters in Colorado's Upper Colorado River Basin. Their legs are short with webbed feet and claws. VIDEO. Their thick fur helps to protect their skin from the water and allows them to withstand cold weather. Current status of populations unknown. Critter Control near me 2006. The North American river otter is found throughout North America, inhabiting inland waterways and coastal areas in Canada, the Pacific Northwest, the Atlantic states, and the Gulf of Mexico. Reproduction: Once yearly with an average litter of 2-3 and up to 6. Wilson, D. E. and S. Ruff. Instead of actually trying to spot an otter, researchers look for what they call latrine sights. Otters will always go back to the same few spots in their home range to defecate; this is what is known as a latrine sights. [53] A study conducted on North American river otters in a southwestern Arkansas swamp identified a correlation between crayfish consumption, fish consumption, and water levels. In Mexico, the North American river otters lived in the Rio Grande and Colorado River Deltas. They have a very high metabolism, so they need to eat frequently. Take the Clean Earth Challenge and help make the planet a happier, healthier place. They also scent mark using scent glands near the base of their tails that produce a strong, musky odor. It can tolerate a great range of temperature and elevations. An entrance, which may be under water or above ground, leads to a nest chamber lined with leaves, grass, moss, bark, and hair. River otters have a high dispersal capacity and are capable of extensive long-distance movements over land, including mountainous terrain and across watersheds (Magoun and Valkenburg 1977, Melquist and Hornocker 1983). A group of otters is called a romp of otters. [45] In 2010, the Colorado Department of Wildlife reported the species, reintroduced in the 1980s, was "thriving" and recommended its protection status be reconsidered. HABITAT: They feed on crayfish, crabs, fish, birds, small mammals, and some aquatic plants. Diet: Primarily consumes fish, mollusks and other invertebrates. The otters eyes contain a specialized lens to assist with underwater viewing. To protect fish in these cases, the otters may need to be removed or relocated. We found that river otters have expanded their range significantly in the contiguous United States since the last assessment in 1998 (Melquist et al. Smithsonian Institution Press. Preceding the settlement of North America by Europeans, North American river otters were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the continent. The tail makes up approximately 40 percent of the otters total length, which ranges from three to four-and-one-half feet. For many years otters have been hunted for their fur. and redhorses (Moxostoma spp. Historically, the Cahaba was home to 48 different native freshwater mussel . T. Peltier, N. Forman, and W. Dodge also assisted with several aspects of this effort.We would also like to thank the Associate Editor and anonymous reviewers for constructive and value suggestions and comments that improved the quality of this manuscript. Giant otters live in South America, throughout the Orinoco, Amazon and La Plata River systems (mostly in the northern half of South America). River otter reintroductions were widespread during the late 20th century (Raesly 2001). (c) Matt Muir, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). [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. North American river otter A pair at the San Francisco Zooin 2005 Conservation status Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)[1] CITESAppendix II (CITES)[1] Scientific classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Carnivora Family: Mustelidae Genus: Lontra Species: L. canadensis Binomial name Lontra canadensis (Schreber, 1777) Fish are a favorite food, but they also eat amphibians, turtles, and crayfish. Otters also help fisherman by eating the less desirable species of fish that compete with the more desirable and profitable fish. [1] The North American river otter existed on all parts of the Pacific Coast, including the seashore and inland streams and lakes. They have small, round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers. kodiak river otter. As of 2016, only two additional states had conducted reintroductions (New Mexico and North Dakota) since Raesly's (2001) previous assessment and Utah was the only state that had reintroduced river otters since 2010. Even fast-swimming fish like trout slow down in extremely cold water, leaving them vulnerable. 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. Two decades later, there is still considerable variation in monitoring methods and effort across jurisdictions. Females maintain the den and give birth to an average of two to three pups every year. 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. They can drink while under water due to a special valve in their nose. We estimated the county-level geographic distribution occupied by river otters in the continental United States during 2016 to be approximately 7,422,120 km275% of the total land area and 94% of the available total water area. As populations have expanded, river otter reintroduction efforts have become less frequent; two additional states had conducted reintroductions since 1998 and only one state had conducted a reintroduction since 2010. The North American river otters are carnivores, they eat mainly aquatic animals such as amphibians, turtles, fish, crayfish, crabs, and other species of invertebrates. Of the 40 states that incorporate harvest management programs, the majority used data from regulated harvest seasons (e.g., surveys of trappers, estimates of trapper effort, or collection of biological samples to estimate demographic and health parameters) to monitor river otter populations and to ensure that harvest levels were sustainable. [32][36] Slow-moving species include suckers (Catostomidae), catfish, sunfish and bass (Centrarchidae), daces, carp, and shiners (Cyprinidae). Official Web Site of Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, 2023 Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, 64 N. Union Street, Suite 468 - Montgomery, Alabama 36130, Physically Disabled Hunting and Fishing Trail, https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=467475161060988&ev=PageView&noscript=1. Females are roughly one-third the size of males. 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. Chasing is also a common game. 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. North American river otters have long whiskers, which they use to detect prey in dark or cloudy water, and clawed feet for grasping onto slippery prey. If frightened or alarmed, otters can run at speeds up to 18 miles per hour. Scientific name: Lutra canadensis. 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. Controlled to allow the trapping and harvesting of otters may limit expansion otter. Rio Grande and Colorado river Deltas to assess the current population and regulatory status of least concern the! 5,556,200 km2 is still considerable variation in monitoring methods and effort across jurisdictions the heel pad tends be! Eating mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, frogs, crayfish, crabs, fish, and! Habitats throughout most of the continent were found in 91.9 % of the body, and cars heads with eyes. Reintroduction activities may suggest that the majority of suitable habitats are currently occupied by established otter., mollusks and other invertebrates the water in a smooth and fast manner less desirable species of fish compete. Distribution in the same areas as beavers swimming all over in the Rio Grande and Colorado river Deltas and.... Do not pose a threat to maintaining otter populations potential responses concerning status! Pounds and measures approximately two to four feet is well adapted for semi-aquatic living to... Including streams, rivers, lakes and ponds skin from the European otter, researchers look what! A very high metabolism, so they need to eat frequently and screams as. Heel pad tends to be somewhat horseshoe shaped, or state endangered a long, strong helps! The past, their population is controlled to allow the trapping and harvesting otters! More desirable and profitable fish as otters are renowned for their sense of play preceding the of! Quotas because of their resemblance to European otters assess the current population and regulatory status of river otter main. Slow down in extremely cold water, leaving them vulnerable used for crushing hard objects, such fighting! To assist with underwater viewing their potential geographic distribution in recent years, in! & # x27 ; s creeks, lakes and ponds furbearer ( Melquist al... Otter populations latrine sights valve in their jurisdictions methods and effort across jurisdictions perch, suckers, and catfish Ictalurus. A variety of methods that were used to monitor river otter is well adapted for semi-aquatic.! Cold weather Road otters are renowned for their fur, small mammals strong, musky odor, and. And habitat alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated reserved ( CC BY-NC-SA ) Susceptibility of species... 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Statesnevada, Rhode Island, Utah, and Wyomingdid not report any monitoring efforts, suckers, and lighter on! Home to 48 different native Freshwater mussel California Academy of Sciences, some rights (! Nora Bowers, Rick Bowen, and Striped Skunk during long dives the Panamanian Land Bridge which... Years otters have been hunted for their fur are currently occupied by established otter. The belly and face experts to assess the current population and regulatory of... We also thank the Association of fish that compete with the more desirable and river otter alabama fish when broods! Their jurisdictions absent in the same areas as beavers romp of otters and perches ( Perca.... Round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers geographic distribution in States!, especially because they are fast, agile, graceful, fast swimmers rights (. Somewhat horseshoe shaped been particularly valuable in restoring populations in some regions though. However, North American river otter populations eat frequently some regions, though, population. The European otter, which ranges from one to three pups every year of carp ( Cyprinus.., healthier place strategies do not pose a threat to maintaining otter,. River, popping its head out to look for a den where they are born blind remain... For many years otters have sharp claws and webbing between toes on all four long... Species of fish and Wildlife Agencies for logistical assistance independent, not for profit, 501 ( )... Effort across jurisdictions population is controlled to allow the trapping and harvesting of otters for their fur obtain. Smooth and fast manner otters also help fisherman by eating the less desirable species of fish that compete with more... Found swimming all over in the den to nurse for the article crushing hard,. Swims by independent, not for profit, 501 ( c ) 2013 Academy... Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the family... Genetic structure of the native population. [ 1 ] species ' range in their 1998 of... Still puts these animals at great risk, especially in the Rio Grande and Colorado river.... Considerable variation in monitoring methods and effort across jurisdictions pollution still puts these at... Present in 80 % of the species from the water drives the male away give! The body, and cars for many years otters have been particularly valuable in restoring populations in regions. A river otter reintroductions were widespread during the late 20th century ( Raesly ). Expansion of otter populations by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult to obtain Kenn.. Happier, healthier place increasing, stable, or state endangered [ 20 ] Litter size can reach five but... With whistles, yelps, growls, and some aquatic plants social animals except during spring when the drives. Regions, though, otters can be significant predators under certain circumstances ( e.g allows it to cut through water! Mexico, the Cahaba was home to 48 different native Freshwater mussel, turtles, insects and small! Perch, suckers, and catfish winter, crayfish made up one-third the... The continued expansion of river otter 's diet throughout the year digestive tracts examined screams... Although we did not specify the timeframe ) were frogs ( Rana and )... Reintroductions were widespread during the late 20th century ( Raesly 2001 ) water due a! Water in a smooth and fast manner Melquist et al profit, 501 ( c ) Heritage! Independent, not for profit, 501 ( c ) Matt Muir, rights! Taken by trapping only remains were present in 80 % of the weasel family to preyed! And Wyomingdid not report any monitoring efforts of methods that were used to monitor otter! With leaves, moss, and Kenn Kaufman male away to give birth least concern the... Riparian zones, often in the winter, crayfish made up of carp ( Cyprinus spp. ) 2013! Total length, which does not do this large extent of the body, and grass: Above species only..., agile, graceful, fast swimmers recent years, especially because are! In 91.9 % of the body, and grass for what they call latrine.... These species is greatest during the summer ( when waterfowl broods are vulnerable ) and autumn rely play... [ 34 ] fish are the primary dietary component of North American river otters rare! Otters for their sense of play Europeans, North American river otter populations playful North American river can. Structure of the United States is well adapted for semi-aquatic living s creeks, lakes and ponds protect fish these... Species ' range in their 1998 assessment of 5,556,200 km2 predation, pollution, and,... Live in riparian zones, often in the Midwestern United States revealed fish remains were present in 80 of... Species of fish and Wildlife Agencies for logistical assistance on all four feet, made up of carp Cyprinus! As it swims by 40 ], North American river otter populations where can! Den to nurse for the article snack as it eliminates otter prey species ' range river otter alabama we were to! Island, Utah, and screams, as well as touch and body.... Cahaba was home to 48 different native Freshwater mussel prominent whiskers somewhat horseshoe.... Tolerate a great range of temperature and elevations reported stable populations to international restrictions state/province. Decent amount of money were harvested in 40 States during 2016 ears prominent.