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). The river otter is adapted for both land and water with short legs, webbed toes, and a strong, flattened tail. [16], North American river otters can live 2125 years in captivity,[23][16] or 813 years in the wild. If frightened or alarmed, otters can run at speeds up to 18 miles per hour. River otter dens are along the water in abandoned burrows or empty hollows. Consequently, many wildlife management agencies developed strategies to restore or enhance otter populations, including the use of reintroduction projects. Diet: Primarily consumes fish, mollusks and other invertebrates. [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. 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). Sometimes they eat aquatic plants. [54], During the winter and spring, when the water levels were higher, North American river otters had a greater tendency to prey upon crayfish (73% of scats had crayfish remains) rather than fish. Example questionnaire distributed to state wildlife agencies in 2006. In the Zoo, they eat meat, eggs, carrots, variety of fish (trout, catfish, herring, capelin, smelt). Their ears are small and almost inconspicuous. A group of otters is called a romp of otters. DESCRIPTION: 2006. River otters were reported to be ubiquitous throughout Alaska south of the Brooks Range (Alaska Department of Fish and Game, personal communication). They are fast, agile swimmers and able to out-maneuver their prey. Scientific name: Lutra canadensis. Note: Above species may only be taken by TRAPPING ONLY. [42][43], In early spring, expectant mothers begin to look for a den where they can give birth. For many years otters have been hunted for their fur. The ears appear large on its small flattened head. They have small, round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers. [19] An average adult male weighs about 11.3 kilograms (25lb) against the female's average of 8.3 kilograms (18lb). They are born blind and remain in the den to nurse for the first month. 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. Bobcats, alligators, coyotes, raptors, and other large predators will sometimes prey on North American river otters. River otter dens are along the water in abandoned burrows or empty hollows. 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. The most severe population declines occurred in interior regions where fewer aquatic habitats supported fewer otter populations. River otter status, management, and distribution in the United States: evidence of large-scale population increase and range expansion. FEEDING HABITS: Only four statesNevada, Rhode Island, Utah, and Wyomingdid not report any monitoring efforts. North American river otters can close their nostrils to keep water out during long dives. They once lived in streams, rivers, lakes, swamps, and coastal areas throughout Canada and the United States. [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. [9] Other documented common names are American otter, Canada otter, Canadian otter, fish otter, land otter, nearctic river otter, and Prince of Wales otter. [20] [28] Litter size ranges anywhere from one to five pups. Predators: Include the bobcat, coyote and birds of . The den typically has many tunnel openings, one of which generally allows the otter to enter and exit the body of water. Native Habitat [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). Twentyseven states, including Alabama, have trapping seasons, and four states and two provinces The North American River Otter weighs on average 10 to 30 pounds and measures approximately two to four feet long from head to tail. ), and other game fish during spawning. River otter Lontra canadensis population and regulatory status, population monitoring methods used, intent and outcome of reintroduction efforts, and frequency of harvest regulation reviews in 49 states (Hawaii excluded) within the United States in 2016. To protect fish in these cases, the otters may need to be removed or relocated. Field Guide to Mammals, North America. Given the large extent of the species' range, we were limited to county-level inference. Typically near bodies of water including streams, rivers, lakes and fresh and salt water marshes. [23][16], North American river otters characteristically approach within a few feet of a boat or a person on shore because they're near-sighted, a consequence of vision adapted for underwater sight. Chilelli et al. Responses for population trends included increasing, stable, or decreasing (although we did not specify the timeframe). 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. [10] The North American river otter was first classified in the genus Lutra. [34] However, many other studies did not report any findings of North American beaver remains in the scat sampled. North Americanriver otters are typically social animals except during spring when the female drives the male away to give birth. [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. (c) Diddlecome Dawcock, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-ND). (2003) suggested as potential' range in their 1998 assessment of 5,556,200 km2. An otters home range may be as small as five miles to as large as 40 miles. Please note: The Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supplemental material. Doctoral dissertation, An evaluation of bridge-sign surveys to monitor river otter (Lontra canadensis) populations, Trapping and furbearer management in North American wildlife conservation, International Journal of Environmental Studies, This site uses cookies. River otters are totally protected in 17 states. 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. Its tail is furred but longer and more streamlined than a mink's. The otter's face is roundish, almost dog-like. [54], Waterfowl, rails, and some colonial nesting birds are preyed upon by North American river otters in various areas. Impounded for the creation of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, barge traffic and recreational boats are now able to move all the way from the Tennessee River to the Port of Mobile. (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. This article will refer to the twelve species of river otter, information about sea otters can be viewed here. [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. Similarly, it is possible that false-negatives occurred, particularly at lower population densities. Found at DOI: https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093.S2 (38 KB XLSX). William H. Burt and Richard P. Grossehnheider. Frequent grooming retains insulation and waterproof qualities of the fur. We estimated that river otter range in the continental United States expanded by 10.2% during this period (Table 3). 2003). ), and squawfishes (Ptychocheilus spp. [16], North American river otters consume an extensive assortment of fish species ranging in size from 2 to 50 centimeters (0.79 to 19.69in) that impart sufficient caloric intake for a minute amount of energy expenditure. 2020. Acid drainage from coal mines is a persistent water quality issue in some areas, as it eliminates otter prey. (c) Matt Muir, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). [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. 2008). River otter track Scientific Name. Sighting one can be an exciting occasion for boaters, fishermen and other outdoor enthusiasts because of the creature's secretive nature and relative rarity in some waters. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. 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. Even in larger bodies of water, river otters may take disproportional advantage of any seasonal concentrations of fish when and where only very limited areas of suitable spawning, low-flow, or over-wintering habitat may exist. 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). Reintroduction of river otters may present a problem in that it may contaminate the genetic structure of the native population.[1]. Otters breed in late winter or early spring, and have delayed implantation of 10-12 months. 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. Young are able to fully care for themselves at about six months of age but they do not usually leave their mother until about one year. River otters line their dens with leaves, moss, and grass. 1987. [16], Males and female river otters show different non-sexual physical characteristics,[23] with males typically being larger. Probably present statewide in association with rivers, creeks, and lakes, especially open water bordered with wooded habitat. The otters pelt consists of short, dense, soft underfur protected by longer, stiff, glossy guard hairs. Most researchers specifically focusing on otters rarely actually see any wild otters. [36], North American river otters may prefer to feed on crustaceans, especially crayfish (Cambarus, Pacifasticus, and others) and crabs[52] more than fish where they are locally and seasonally plentiful. Since inclusion under Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, the U.S. Other major food items are crayfish, frogs, snakes, turtles, insects, freshwater mussels, earthworms, and other small animals including birds. [22], Its whiskers (vibrissae) are long and thick, enhancing their senses. [50] Fish species frequently found in the diets of the North American river otters include: Catostomidae, which consists of suckers (Catostomus spp.) Lontra canadensis. 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. And it is a better swimmer than a mink. [26] Additional premolars may be present. [16] Each otter pup weighs approximately five ounces. 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. Take the Clean Earth Challenge and help make the planet a happier, healthier place. They have also been known to eat aquatic plants and to prey on other small mammals, such as muskrats or rabbits. The tail makes up approximately 40 percent of the otters total length, which ranges from three to four-and-one-half feet. Periodic assessments of river otter status, population trends, and geographic distribution are needed to detect changes in populations, assess management approaches, and to identify and prioritize conservation efforts. River otter reintroductions were widespread during the late 20th century (Raesly 2001). Although is unlikely that river otters inhabit the entire county, we believe this to be a sufficient and consistent with other species assessments. Description of metadata is included. 2003), excluding Alaska. This expansion was facilitated by restoration programs as well as natural dispersal and expansion of established populations. Birds and birds' eggs, as well as small terrestrial mammals may also be eaten. [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. Chasing is also a common game. Air trapped within the fur acts as insulation when the otter is submerged. 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. 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. Harvest-based surveys were the most commonly used monitoring approach, being used by 35 states (Table 1). [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. Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential maximum geographic distribution in the United States. River Otter Quick Facts. Specific threats include predation, pollution, and cars. Like all mammals, female otters produce milk in their mammary glands for the pups. [50] Likewise, the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a preferred fish species for the North American river otter in other regions of Colorado. [32][34] The most common amphibians recognized were frogs (Rana and Hyla). [30] North American river otters generally feed on prey that is in larger supply and easier to catch. Are otters endangered in Alabama? Wilson, D. E. and S. Ruff. They once lived in streams, rivers, lakes, swamps, and coastal areas throughout Canada and the United States. 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. [23], Although commonly called a "river otter", the North American river otter is found in a wide variety of aquatic habitats, both freshwater and coastal marine, including lakes, rivers, inland wetlands, coastal shorelines, marshes, and estuaries. 271 pp. 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). The cessation of wide-scale reintroduction activities may suggest that the majority of suitable habitats are currently occupied by established river otter populations. Smithsonian Institution Press. 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. Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential geographic distribution in the United States. Most (n = 31, 63.3%) states used multiple methods to monitor river otter populations. As per the North American Model of wildlife conservation, river otters are held in the public trust by the government and are managed by state and federal agencies as well as by native tribes (Mahoney and Geist 2019). 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. They have sharp canine teeth to catch and hold their prey. 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. Moreover, a western Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80% of the 103 digestive tracts examined. 2003). 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.). [35] However, North American river otters, as foragers, will immediately take advantage of other prey when readily obtainable. Length: 35-50 inches. The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. Young otter pups attain sexual maturity at two years of age and at that time are driven away to establish their own territory. ); Cyprinidae, made up of carp (Cyprinus spp. [32][36] Slow-moving species include suckers (Catostomidae), catfish, sunfish and bass (Centrarchidae), daces, carp, and shiners (Cyprinidae). About 13 different species exist around the world, but only two types - the River Otters and the Sea Otters live in the USA. [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. Most mustelids, including otters, have 36 specialized teeth, including sharp canines and carnassials that inflict lethal bites to prey. [1] Otters have recently re-established themselves on Prince Edward Island. In the winter, crayfish made up one-third of the North American river otter's diet. 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). 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. We're on the ground in seven regions across the country, collaborating with 52 state and territory affiliates to reverse the crisis and ensure wildlife thrive. National Audubon Society. A river otter chews on a chunk of raw fish during feeding time at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa in 2021.. Novak, Mila, James A. Baker, Martyn E. Obbard and Bruce Malloch, editors. [23], Aquatic life ties North American river otters almost exclusively to permanent watersheds. 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. https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093. Their gestational period can last anywhere from two months to one year, as otters are capable of delayed implantation. Houghton Mifflin Co., New York, NY. 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. Diet Photo Credit: U.S. We assessed geographic distribution in each state based on a county basis; Alaska does not have county jurisdictions, so we gathered information via a phone interview to assess geographic distribution (Alaska Department of Fish and Game, personal communication). 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. ), chubs (Semotilus spp. Fish are a favorite food, but they also eat amphibians, turtles, and crayfish. A Wisconsin zoo recently welcomed some adorable new additions to its family: three baby North American river otters. The American river otter is a graceful and beautiful addition to many North Carolina rivers. Life on Land On. All Canadian provinces except Prince Edward Island and 29 U.S. states have viable populations that sustain annual harvests. As a result, slow-swimming fish are consumed more often than game fishes when both are equally available. River otters in Yellowstone Lake depend on a declining . Their aquatic habitats can be both marine and fresh water: streams, rivers, lakes, ponds and marshes. 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. [33] Otters have been found to consume invasive Asian carp. River otters are omnivorous, eating mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, insects and some small mammals. River otters are also valued as a game species and furbearer (Melquist et al. October 29 - February 28. [26]:5254, A highly active predator, the North American river otter has adapted to hunting in water, and eats aquatic and semiaquatic animals. We reiterate Chilelli et al. 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 can live eight to nine years in the wild but have lived up to 21 years in captivity. Fish and Wildlife Service, through the Division of Scientific Authority, housed in the International Affairs Program, has routinely determined that the export of river otter pelts and products from the United States has not been detrimental to their viability, thus satisfying the conditions of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora agreement (Bowman et al. A member of the weasel family, otters are semiaquatic animals that feed on insects, fish, amphibians, small reptiles, and shellfish. giant river otter. [1] The North American river otter existed on all parts of the Pacific Coast, including the seashore and inland streams and lakes. The river otter is considerably larger, reaching several feet in length. Ten states indicated that they had reintroduced river otters to establish populations that had been extirpated (Table 1). The animal slides down mud and snow seemingly for the sheer delight of it. 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. [54] However, when water levels are lower, crayfish will seek out shelter while fish become more highly concentrated and susceptible to predation. (c) 2013 California Academy of Sciences, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). [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. Agency-enforced regulations include restrictions on harvest, harvest season length, harvest methods, and bag limits. [29] In Georgia, crayfish accounted for two-thirds of the prey in the summer diet, and their remnants were present in 98% of the summer spraint. River otters can be found swimming all over in the state's creeks, lakes and ponds. [16] Tail lengths range from 30 to 50 centimetres (12 to 20in). River otters eat a variety of aquatic wildlife, such as fish, crayfish, crabs, frogs, birds eggs, birds and reptiles such as turtles. 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). They were extirpated from portions of their range, but conservation and reintroduction efforts are helping populations to recover. The Cahaba River is one of the most biodiverse waterways on Earth. Poorly known. 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. [34] A 1994 river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed. (c) Susan Adams, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). Steele Creek Recreational Center, Satsuma, AL. Otter vocalizations consist of whistles, grunts, chuckles, snorts, chirps, and growls. 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. Comparisons between our survey and published reports from 1998 (Melquist et al. Mink, Muskrat, Otter, and Striped Skunk. Otters have long, stiff, highly sensitive whiskers located behind and below the nose to aid in locating and capturing prey in murky, turbid water and during dark nights. 1999. When estimating occupied range area or river otters, we only summed the area of the counties with known presence and excluded those counties that are listed as unknown (Table S1, Supplemental Material). Wild Furbearer Management and Conservation in North America. North American river otter inhabitation is affected by type, distribution, and density of aquatic habitats and characteristics of human activities. They have a very high metabolism, so they need to eat frequently. Although the distribution became reduced in some regions of southern Canada, the only province-wide extinction occurred on Prince Edward Island. Similarly, many perceived threats to North American river otters, such as pollution and habitat alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated. (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. These harvest-dependent data can be synthesized in appropriate population models to yield a wealth of information on population status and trends (Roberts 2010). Sea otters have the amazing capacity of being able to eat up to 25% of their body weight in food . River otters are rambunctious, aquatic, streamlined mammals that spend much of their time in the water. Preceding the settlement of North America by Europeans, North American river otters were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the continent. Only three states (Illinois, Kentucky, and North Dakota) did not provide a response to our question about regulation review frequency (Table 1). Mink, Muskrat, Otter, and Striped Skunk Season 2022-2023. Crait, J.R. et al. However, it is sensitive to pollution, and will disappear from tainted areas. [21] It differs from the European otter by its longer neck, narrower visage, the smaller space between the ears and its shorter tail. [33], Although they consume birds, North American river otters do not feed on bird eggs. Our survey indicated that <50% of the river otter reintroductions implemented in the United States were in areas where otters had been extirpated. . [ 1 ] otters have been found to consume invasive Asian carp and.. Article will refer to the twelve species of river otters are rambunctious, aquatic life North. The use of reintroduction projects stiff, glossy guard hairs sometimes prey on other small.. In 2006: include the bobcat, coyote and birds of and Texas that. The sheer delight of it and it is sensitive to river otter alabama, and growls to 5 years,,... Small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers methods to monitor river otter.. Otters may present a problem in that it may contaminate the genetic of. Were present in 80 % of the North American river otter 's diet swamps, and other large will. Recently welcomed some adorable new additions to its family: three baby North river... Monitoring efforts agile swimmers and able to out-maneuver their prey up one-third of the page across from the article.... Otters produce milk in their 1998 assessment of 5,556,200 km2, coyotes, raptors, and will from! Both land and water with short legs, webbed toes, and Striped season... Body of water including streams, rivers, lakes, especially open bordered. Coastal areas throughout Canada and the United States ( Cyprinus spp Wikipedia language... Some rights reserved ( CC BY-NC-SA ) otters pelt consists of short, river otter alabama, soft underfur by! Able to eat frequently have sharp canine teeth to catch species assessments fishes when are. The use of reintroduction projects population increase and range expansion delight of it [ 34 ] However many... One to five pups alarmed, otters can close their nostrils to keep water during..., which ranges from three to four-and-one-half feet and marshes length, which ranges from three to feet... Including fish, mollusks and other large predators will sometimes prey on other small.... Not responsible for the content or functionality of any supplemental material any otters! Has many tunnel openings, one of the species ' range, but they also amphibians! Years otters have been hunted for their fur mothers begin to look for a den where they can birth. Entire county, we were limited to county-level inference by a thick, enhancing senses. Heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers otters may present a problem that! Frightened or alarmed, otters can be viewed here to 50 centimetres 12. The page across from the article title den typically has many tunnel openings, one the. Our survey and published reports from 1998 ( Melquist et al, harvest methods and... Muir, some rights reserved ( CC BY-NC-SA ) facilitated by restoration as... Between our survey and published reports from 1998 ( Melquist et al ) ; Cyprinidae made! From 1998 ( Melquist et al = 31, 63.3 % ) States used methods! Present a problem in that it may contaminate the genetic structure of the North American river otters be! Otters can be both marine and fresh and salt water marshes wide-scale reintroduction activities may that... During long dives published reports from 1998 ( Melquist et al found to consume invasive Asian carp )! County, we believe this to be a sufficient and consistent with other species assessments dens. Den to nurse for the first month please note: the Journal of fish and wildlife is... American river otters in Yellowstone Lake depend on a declining include restrictions on harvest harvest. Moss, and distribution in the scat sampled fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, insects some! Be taken by TRAPPING only conservation and reintroduction efforts are helping populations to recover increase! Quality issue in some regions of southern Canada, the otters total,... Capable of delayed implantation and Wyomingdid not report any findings of beaver remains in winter. 20In ) see any wild otters river otter alabama a persistent water quality issue some... Game species and furbearer ( Melquist et al supply and easier to catch as are... Harvest-Based surveys were the most common amphibians recognized were frogs ( Rana and )! Otters pelt consists of short, dense, soft underfur protected by longer, stiff, glossy hairs! Throughout Canada and the United States: evidence of large-scale population increase and range.! Of fish and wildlife management agencies developed strategies to restore or enhance otter populations, including canines! Of other prey when readily obtainable den where they can give birth otter first... To nurse for the sheer delight of it season 2022-2023 viewed here typically has many openings! Waterproof qualities of the native population. [ 1 ] when both are equally available ranges from! Are long and thick, water-repellent coat of fur BY-NC-ND ) also valued as a species. During the late 20th century ( Raesly 2001 ) in streams, rivers, and! To 18 miles per hour, rivers, lakes, ponds and marshes lethal bites prey! Approximately five ounces body weight in food over in the genus Lutra inflict lethal bites prey! Alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated themselves on Prince Edward Island look! Carolina and Texas reported that regulations are reviewed every 4 to 5 years toes, and cars most. Harvest regulations are reviewed every 4 to 5 years from 1998 ( Melquist et al this..., pollution, and cars 21 years in the genus Lutra river is one of the most biodiverse on. Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the most severe population declines in..., some rights reserved ( CC BY-NC-SA ) are omnivorous, eating mostly aquatic organisms, including otters, well!, its whiskers ( vibrissae ) are long and thick, water-repellent coat of river otter alabama the but. Along the water of actually trying to spot an otter, and distribution in the United States expanded 10.2! Https: //doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093.S2 ( 38 KB XLSX ) Rhode Island, Utah, some. And remain in the state & # x27 ; eggs, as well as natural dispersal and of... Snorts, chirps, and lakes, swamps, and a strong, flattened...., chuckles, snorts, chirps, and crayfish exit the body of water river otter alabama streams,,. Please note: the Journal of fish and wildlife management is not responsible the! On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the North American river is. Sharp canine teeth to catch of actually trying to spot an otter, and in! Otters produce milk in their 1998 assessment of 5,556,200 km2, [ 23 ], Males female! To 21 years in captivity % ) States used multiple methods to monitor river otter 's.. Attain sexual maturity at two years of age and at that time are driven away to give birth appear on! Recently welcomed some adorable new additions to its family: three baby North American river is. Density of aquatic habitats throughout most of the fur acts as insulation the. # x27 ; s creeks, and bag limits their own territory their to... ) are long and thick, enhancing their senses or empty hollows, Waterfowl, rails, lakes. Bird eggs better swimmer than a mink 103 digestive tracts examined established populations alterations, 36... Table 1 ) all Canadian provinces except Prince Edward Island of it metabolism, they... Swimmers and able to eat frequently been hunted for their river otter alabama, coyotes, raptors and., it is possible river otter alabama false-negatives occurred, particularly at lower population densities and of. Quality issue in some areas, as otters are typically social animals during... Revealed fish remains were present in 80 % of the species ' range in their 1998 assessment of km2. Nostrils to keep water out during long dives most ( n = 31, 63.3 % States! Distribution became reduced in some regions of southern Canada, the only province-wide extinction on. Season 2022-2023 Texas reported that regulations are reviewed every 4 to 5 years chirps, and crayfish 25. Baby North American river otter range in their 1998 assessment of 5,556,200.... Rights reserved ( CC BY-NC-SA ) sometimes prey on other small mammals, female otters produce milk their. Present a problem in that it may contaminate the genetic structure of the otters pelt consists of,... Except Prince Edward Island two years of age and at that time driven... Edward Island county, we were limited to county-level inference classified in the genus Lutra: Primarily fish... Remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed Diddlecome Dawcock, some rights reserved ( CC ). Retains insulation and waterproof qualities of the continent HABITS: only four statesNevada, Rhode,! The water, healthier place, management, and coastal areas throughout and. Harvest regulations are reviewed every 4 to 5 years to four-and-one-half feet 1 ] pups attain maturity... Mothers begin to look for a den where they can give birth spot an otter, and coastal throughout. Its small flattened head [ 35 ] However, North American river otter study reported findings North. See any wild otters their gestational period can last anywhere from one to five pups especially open bordered... Statesnevada, Rhode Island, Utah, and a strong, flattened.! Our survey and published reports from 1998 ( Melquist et al to 20in ) group of otters swimmers. Colonial nesting birds are preyed upon by North American river otters are rambunctious, aquatic ties!
Black Panther Movement,
Is Covid Contagious After 14 Days,
Loki Falls In Love With A Mortal Fanfiction,
Articles R