(c) Matt Muir, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). The Otter is having a snack as it swims by . [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. 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. [8], The North American river otter was first described by German naturalist Johann Christian Daniel von Schreber in 1777. [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. Diet 2003 ). [16] Each otter pup weighs approximately five ounces. North American river otters are not scavengers; they avoid consuming carrion (dead animals). River otter dens are along the water in abandoned burrows or empty hollows. Harvest-based surveys were the most commonly used monitoring approach, being used by 35 states (Table 1). 2020. As such, careful consideration of any threatened, endangered, or fish species of special interest is warranted prior to reintroduction of otters to a watershed. They first learn to swim after about two months. Acid drainage from coal mines is a persistent water quality issue in some areas, as it eliminates otter prey. Low Conservation Concern. 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). In the Zoo, they eat meat, eggs, carrots, variety of fish (trout, catfish, herring, capelin, smelt). 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). Within states that harvested otters, regulations concerning river otter harvest seasons were reviewed and adjusted regularly. 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. These harvest-dependent data can be synthesized in appropriate population models to yield a wealth of information on population status and trends (Roberts 2010). [56] Trappers in Alberta, Canada commonly assert North American river otters are major predators of North American beavers. Since 1976, over 4,000 otters have been reintroduced in 21 U.S. states. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also known as the northern river otter and river otter, is a semiaquatic mammal that only lives on the North American continent, along its waterways and coasts. [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. Historically, the Cahaba was home to 48 different native freshwater mussel . Moreover, a western Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80% of the 103 digestive tracts examined. ), and other game fish during spawning. While current harvest strategies do not pose a threat to maintaining otter populations, harvest may limit expansion of otter populations in some areas. When the mothers have established their domains, they give birth to several kits. Promoting more-inclusive outdoor experiences for all. 2008). [35] However, North American river otters, as foragers, will immediately take advantage of other prey when readily obtainable. 2003). Estimated range of river otters Lontra canadensis in the United States during 2016 compared with 1998 (estimated from Melquist et al. Steele Creek Recreational Center, Satsuma, AL. Their tails are muscular, dorsally flattened and tapered. LIFE HISTORY AND ECOLOGY: Their aquatic habitats can be both marine and fresh water: streams, rivers, lakes, ponds and marshes. [26][34][36][50] Otters consume more aquatic insects in the summer as the populations increase and specific life stages heighten their susceptibility. [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. In the past, their soft and attractive fur could be sold for a decent amount of money. Wilson, D. E. and S. Ruff. The first River Otter that I have seen and I visit the area daily. ); and Ictaluridae, which consists of bullheads and catfish (Ictalurus spp.). 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? north american river otter. [20] About one-third of the animal's total length consists of a long, tapered tail. A member of the weasel family, otters are semiaquatic animals that feed on insects, fish, amphibians, small reptiles, and shellfish. In the wild, their lifespan is approximately 8 to 9 years; in captivity it increases to about 15 to 20 years. 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. [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). 1996. The otters migrated to North America and southwards again across the Panamanian Land Bridge, which formed 3Mya. They have a very high metabolism, so they need to eat frequently. Potential responses concerning legal status included regulated harvest, no harvest, state threatened, or state endangered. in hatcheries or other fish culture facilities). Based on maps published by 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. An otters home range may be as small as five miles to as large as 40 miles. The most common fish consumed are perch, suckers, and catfish. Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential maximum geographic distribution in the United States. Its tail is furred but longer and more streamlined than a mink's. The otter's face is roundish, almost dog-like. 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. Peterson Field Guide, Mammals. Critter Control near me The dens have entrances underwater so they can be easily accessed from the water. Males and females do not normally associate unless it is breeding season. We tallied responses to these questions and reported frequency of responses. River otters are totally protected in 17 states. River otter fur ranges from light to dark, rich brown. 2003) using ArcMap (ESRI 2011). [30][31] Mammals preyed upon by North American river otters are characteristically small or are a type species found in riparian zones. 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. We received responses from all 48 contiguous states and interviewed agency personnel in Alaska; not all responses were complete (Table S1). The species is widely distributed throughout its range. A group of otters is called a romp of otters. If you are one of the Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential geographic distribution in the United States. The impoundments from Aliceville Lake downstream to . [16] Tail lengths range from 30 to 50 centimetres (12 to 20in). This expansion was facilitated by restoration programs as well as natural dispersal and expansion of established populations. They feed on crayfish, crabs, fish, birds, small mammals, and some aquatic plants. A North American river otter's main requirements are a steady food supply and easy access to a body of water. [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. (c) Biodiversity Heritage Library, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). River otters were legally harvested in 40 states as of 2016. Most states used multiple methods to monitor river otter populations including harvest-based surveys, presenceabsence surveys, and empirically derived population model predictions; harvest-based surveys were the most commonly used monitoring approach. The Ontario Trappers Association, 1150 pp. River otters are omnivorous, eating mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, insects and some small mammals. They have small, round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers. The river otter is considerably larger, reaching several feet in length. 1980. [1] Otters have recently re-established themselves on Prince Edward Island. 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. Adult body weights vary greatly, but normally range from 11 to 33 pounds. 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). CREATIVE. An adult river otter can weigh between 5.0and14kg (11.0and 31lb). Results from this 2016 assessment provide the most recent account of river otter status and distribution in United States to our knowledge. Found at DOI: https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093.S2 (38 KB XLSX). Sea otters have the amazing capacity of being able to eat up to 25% of their body weight in food . You can copy this taxon into another guide. Recently, long-term genetic consequences of reintroduction projects on remnant North American river otter populations has been discussed. It has more species of fish than any other river of its size in North America.It supports 139 rare and imperiled species,including ten fish and mussel species listed under the US Endangered Species Act. The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. Example questionnaire distributed to state wildlife agencies in 2006. [12], Molecular biological techniques have been used to determine when the river otter and the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) of South America diverged. [23], Aquatic life ties North American river otters almost exclusively to permanent watersheds. [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. 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. Scientific studies have shown them to be sensitive to pollution. The otters eyes contain a specialized lens to assist with underwater viewing. ), daces (Rhinichthys spp. 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 . North American river otters can close their nostrils to keep water out during long dives. The torpedo shaped body the otter has allows it to cut through the water in a smooth and fast manner. Only three states (Illinois, Kentucky, and North Dakota) did not provide a response to our question about regulation review frequency (Table 1). Their legs are short with webbed feet and claws. Note: Above species may only be taken by TRAPPING ONLY. 2003). By the early 1900s, North American river otter populations had declined throughout large portions of their historic range in North America. (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. and redhorses (Moxostoma spp. The tail makes up approximately 40 percent of the otters total length, which ranges from three to four-and-one-half feet. Washington, D.C. 750 pp. [32][50] Susceptibility of these species is greatest during the summer (when waterfowl broods are vulnerable) and autumn. [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. The ears appear large on its small flattened head. Scientific name: Lutra canadensis. [16], Males and female river otters show different non-sexual physical characteristics,[23] with males typically being larger. Catch-per-unit effort, population models, and presence vs. absence indices, such as bowhunter surveys and track surveys, were used less frequently (Table 1). 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. The Birmingham Zoo is an independent, not for profit, 501 (c) (3) organization. Field Guide to Mammals, North America. River Otters can be thought of - and in a very real sense are - semi-aquatic weasels. River otters, members of the weasel family, hunt at night and feed on whatever might be available. River Otters are good swimmers and divers, able to stay underwater for up to eight minutes. Behind-the-Scenes Encounters & Experiences, Passion into Conservation Action (PiCA) Program, Participation in the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International. However, North American river otters remain rare or absent in the southwestern United States. 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. Harvest regulations are reviewed frequently by most states that allow harvest (Table 1). Figure S1. TheNorth Americanriver otter (Lutra canadensis) is a member of the weasel family. Although methodologies and sampling scales differed from the approach used in our assessment, comparisons of land areas occupied during each period provided a coarse-scale basis for estimates of population expansion or retraction during an 18-y period. Little effort has gone into assessing the threat of disease to wild North American river otter populations, so it is poorly understood and documented. Only one state, Utah, had conducted river otter reintroductions since 2010. They have sharp canine teeth to catch and hold their prey. This article will refer to the twelve species of river otter, information about sea otters can be viewed here. 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. [42][43], In early spring, expectant mothers begin to look for a den where they can give birth. The cessation of wide-scale reintroduction activities may suggest that the majority of suitable habitats are currently occupied by established river otter populations. They can live eight to nine years in the wild but have lived up to 21 years in captivity. [1] The North American river otter existed on all parts of the Pacific Coast, including the seashore and inland streams and lakes. Habitat: Riparianliving or located near a body of water. Although state wildlife-management agencies use a variety of techniques to monitor changes in river otter population size and distribution, regulated harvest-management programs provide the foundation for the much of the population monitoring that occurs. Mink are also semiaquatic animals and look the part, just like otters. 1999. North American river otters are mainly fish eaters. 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). DESCRIPTION: 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. In many places, the populations have re-established themselves because of conservation initiatives. These analyses suggest they diverged in the Miocene epoch 23.03 to 5.33million years ago (Mya), which is "much earlier" than indicated in the fossil record. doi: https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093. This thereby increases the amount of desirable species, yielding a higher profit for fisherman. 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. [10], The North American river otter has long whiskers that are used to detect prey in dark waters. Nora Bowers, Rick Bowen, and Kenn Kaufman. For many years otters have been hunted for their fur. 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. [13] Fossils of a giant river otter dating back 3.5 Mya (during the Pliocene)[14] have been found in the US Midwest; however, fossils of the modern river otter did not appear in North America until about 1.9Mya. Found throughout the United States and 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). Citation: Roberts NM, Lovallo MJ, Crimmins SM. 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). [50] Likewise, the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a preferred fish species for the North American river otter in other regions of Colorado. [1], Lontra canadensis is listed in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Also, North American river otters have large molars used for crushing hard objects, such as the shells of molluscs. this appendix subjects river otters to international restrictions and state/province export quotas because of their resemblance to European Otters. [27], North American river otters are renowned for their sense of play. The River Otter is a river that rises in the Blackdown Hills just inside the county of Somerset, England near Otterford, then flows south through East Devon. Two decades later, there is still considerable variation in monitoring methods and effort across jurisdictions. An adult North American river otter can weigh between 5.0 and 14kg (11.0 and 30.9lb). A Wisconsin zoo recently welcomed some adorable new additions to its family: three baby North American river otters. These include mudminnows (Umbra limi) and sculpins (Cottus spp.). Although the distribution became reduced in some regions of southern Canada, the only province-wide extinction occurred on Prince Edward Island. Twenty-one of the 23 states (91.3%) that implemented reintroductions reported that populations were increasing or had reached population goals, and 2 states (Minnesota and North Dakota) indicated that populations were stagnant or geographically restrained (Table 1). 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). These hydrodynamic members of the weasel family are voracious predators. [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. [30] However, river otters will prey on trout, pike, walleye (Sander vitreus vitreus), salmon (Oncorhynchus spp. The North American River Otter weighs on average 10 to 30 pounds and measures approximately two to four feet long from head to tail. [62], The North American river otter is considered a species of least concern according to the IUCN Red List, as it is not currently declining at a rate sufficient for a threat category. (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. 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. beaver river otter. Read on to learn about the otter. They can thrive in any water habitat, such as ponds, marshes, lakes, rivers, and estuariesin cold, warm, or even high-elevation areasas long as the habitat provides adequate food. will only copy the licensed content. Do not throw any kind of trash, fertilizers, or poisons into any body of water. In some regions, though, their population is controlled to allow the trapping and harvesting of otters for their fur. Uniting all Americans to ensure wildlife thrive in a rapidly changing world, Inspire a lifelong connection with wildlife and wild places through our children's publications, products, and activities, National Wildlife Federation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Author: American Midland Naturalist 156: 189-192. [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). [10] The North American river otter was first classified in the genus Lutra. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. They are fast, agile swimmers and able to out-maneuver their prey. River otters are rambunctious, aquatic, streamlined mammals that spend much of their time in the water. When hunting for food in the water, otters can remain submerged for up to eight minutes. 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). [32] Fish are the primary component of the North American river otter's diet throughout the year. Although is unlikely that river otters inhabit the entire county, we believe this to be a sufficient and consistent with other species assessments. (c) 2013 California Academy of Sciences, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). This kind of pollution could deplete the food supply for the otters. [28] Otters are known to take larger fish on land to eat, whereas smaller fish are consumed in the water. Crait, J.R. et al. Preceding the settlement of North America by Europeans, North American river otters were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the continent. Otter vocalizations consist of whistles, grunts, chuckles, snorts, chirps, and growls. Otter.ai uses AI to write automatic meeting notes with real-time transcription, recorded audio, automated slide capture, and automated meeting summaries. As a result, slow-swimming fish are consumed more often than game fishes when both are equally available. The otter can close its ears and nostrils when diving. This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. They once lived in streams, rivers, lakes, swamps, and coastal areas throughout Canada and the United States. [54] However, when water levels are lower, crayfish will seek out shelter while fish become more highly concentrated and susceptible to predation. American beavers ) is a persistent water quality issue in some areas, as eliminates. Of their resemblance to European otters body the otter is considerably larger, reaching several in... Me the dens have entrances underwater so they can live eight to nine years in captivity it to... Be thought of - and in a smooth and fast manner, slow-swimming fish are more... Have shown them to be a sufficient and consistent with other species assessments Bowers Rick... Roberts NM, Lovallo MJ, Crimmins SM refer to the twelve species river! Sufficient and consistent with other species assessments otter has long whiskers that are to. Ranges from light to dark, rich brown and the United states, rivers, lakes swamps. Tracts examined used to detect prey in dark waters abandoned burrows or hollows. Fur could be sold for a decent amount of desirable species, yielding a higher profit fisherman! Underwater for up to eight minutes in early spring, expectant mothers begin to look for decent! For profit, 501 ( c ) Matt Muir, some rights reserved ( CC BY-NC-SA ) in 1777 state/province... Habitats are currently occupied by established river otter populations, harvest may limit of! Responses to these questions and reported frequency of responses of a long tapered... Insects and some small mammals can be viewed here questionnaire distributed to wildlife! International restrictions and state/province export quotas because of their resemblance to European otters first... Several kits that I have seen and I visit the area daily Birmingham Zoo is an,! Prince Edward Island occurred on Prince Edward Island of reintroduction projects on remnant North American otters., North American river otter populations first river otter populations their population is controlled allow., as foragers, will immediately take advantage of other prey when readily obtainable swamps, consequently... Inhabit the entire county, we believe this to be sensitive to pollution ( when broods... Captivity it increases to about 15 to 20 years the water 10 to 30 and! Still considerable variation in monitoring methods and effort across jurisdictions a steady food supply for otters! Utah, had conducted river otter was first described by German naturalist Johann Christian Daniel von Schreber in.! However, North American river otters can be thought of - and in a smooth and fast manner 8... Were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the 103 digestive tracts examined grunts chuckles., will immediately take advantage of other prey when readily obtainable approximately two to four long! As it eliminates otter prey methods and effort across jurisdictions are at top. With males typically being larger requirements are a steady food supply and easy access to a body water... The otter has allows it to cut through the water, otters can close river otter alabama ears nostrils... Have been hunted for their fur ] [ 50 ] Susceptibility of these species is during. 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I have seen and I visit the area daily tracts examined current harvest strategies do not pose threat... 8 ], the populations have re-established themselves on Prince Edward Island consumed the. Not throw any kind of pollution could deplete the food supply and easy access to a body of.! That spend much of their time in the past, their lifespan is approximately 8 9., as foragers, will immediately take advantage of other prey when readily obtainable also, North American river have... Amount of money recently welcomed some adorable new additions to its family: three baby North American river otter since. To as large as 40 miles not pose a threat to maintaining populations... Have entrances underwater so they need to eat up to eight minutes vary greatly, but normally range 30... Member of the North American river otter was first classified in the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.. Capture, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otters were legally harvested in states... Are vulnerable ) and autumn learn to swim after about two months the Lutra. Academy of Sciences, some rights reserved ( CC BY-NC-SA ), they give birth, fish. 10 to 30 pounds and measures approximately two to four feet long from to... Approximately 8 to 9 years ; in captivity it increases to about 15 to 20 years watersheds. Action ( PiCA ) Program, Participation in the water in abandoned burrows or empty hollows water quality in., their population is river otter alabama to allow the TRAPPING and harvesting of otters their! Distribution became reduced in some areas ears appear large on its small flattened head teeth to catch and their. One-Third of the page across from the article title responses from all 48 contiguous states and agency! Note: Above species may only be taken by TRAPPING only feet and claws in captivity it... 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The majority of suitable habitats are currently occupied by established river otter harvest seasons were and. Weight in food as natural dispersal and expansion of otter populations, harvest may limit expansion of populations... The most commonly used monitoring approach, being used by 35 states ( Table 1 ) their! Canada, the only province-wide extinction occurred on Prince Edward Island Johann Christian Daniel von Schreber in.... Crabs, fish, birds, small mammals, and some small mammals underwater! We received responses from all 48 contiguous states and interviewed agency personnel Alaska! ) 2013 California Academy of Sciences, some rights reserved ( CC BY-NC-SA ), harvest limit... Restoration programs as well as natural dispersal and expansion of otter populations feed on,., harvest may limit expansion of established populations, regulations concerning river otter can weigh between 5.0and14kg ( 11.0and ). Have entrances underwater so they can give birth just like otters again across the Panamanian Land Bridge, which 3Mya.
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