Author: States reported a variety of methods that were used to monitor river otter populations. Litter size ranges anywhere from one to five pups. north american river otter. The species is widely distributed throughout its range. A number of reintroduction projects have been initiated to help halt the reduction in the overall population. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. will only copy the licensed content. (1996) encouraged jurisdictions to standardize monitoring methodology. [45] In 2010, the Colorado Department of Wildlife reported the species, reintroduced in the 1980s, was "thriving" and recommended its protection status be reconsidered. River otters, members of the weasel family, hunt at night and feed on whatever might be available. CREATIVE. River otters line their dens with leaves, moss, and grass. As a result, slow-swimming fish are consumed more often than game fishes when both are equally available. 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). 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. 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. They can drink while under water due to a special valve in their nose. [22], Its whiskers (vibrissae) are long and thick, enhancing their senses. 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. Do not throw any kind of trash, fertilizers, or poisons into any body of water. . North American river otters are mainly fish eaters. Late seasonal breeding of river ot- ters in Yellowstone National Park. ), daces (Rhinichthys spp. [9] Other documented common names are American otter, Canada otter, Canadian otter, fish otter, land otter, nearctic river otter, and Prince of Wales otter. 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. 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. [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). Table S1. 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). Behind-the-Scenes Encounters & Experiences, Passion into Conservation Action (PiCA) Program, Participation in the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International. DESCRIPTION: The River Otters are smaller and weigh between 10-30 pound. kodiak river otter. [28], Aquatic invertebrates have been recognized as an integral part of the North American river otter's diet. Females are roughly one-third the size of males. [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. Crait, J.R. and M. Ben-David. 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. Size Adult river otters weigh 10 to 33 pounds (4.5 to 15 kilograms) and are about 2.5 to 5 feet (76 to 152 centimeters) in length. This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. Lutra was the early European name (from Latin), and the specific epithet canadensis[9] means "of Canada". 2006. Twentyseven states, including Alabama, have trapping seasons, and four states and two provinces Physical Description They have very streamlined bodies, with a well-muscled tail; both aid in swimming. 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. River Otters can be thought of - and in a very real sense are - semi-aquatic weasels. beaver river otter. Otter.ai uses AI to write automatic meeting notes with real-time transcription, recorded audio, automated slide capture, and automated meeting summaries. [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. 1980. Fish are a favorite food, but they also eat amphibians, turtles, and crayfish. The tail makes up approximately 40 percent of the otters total length, which ranges from three to four-and-one-half feet. They have small, round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers. [34] Fish remnants were found in 91.9% of the samples. 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? Responses for population trends included increasing, stable, or decreasing (although we did not specify the timeframe). Otter vocalizations consist of whistles, grunts, chuckles, snorts, chirps, and growls. Other restoration efforts were conducted to bolster existing river otter populations and to expand otter distributions and provide connectivity within states that had existing, but not ubiquitous, river otter populations (Table 1). They feed on crayfish, crabs, fish, birds, small mammals, and some aquatic plants. [32][34] The most common amphibians recognized were frogs (Rana and Hyla). 2003). Only one state, Utah, had conducted river otter reintroductions since 2010. Life on Land On. [20] Litter size can reach five, but usually ranges from one to three. Based on maps published by Melquist et al. 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). Native Habitat 2003) using ArcMap (ESRI 2011). The continued expansion of river otter populations where they are managed by regulated harvest is likely enhanced by the frequency of these regulatory reviews. [34] A 1994 river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed. in hatcheries or other fish culture facilities). [2008], and Roberts [2010]). You will often see an otter swimming for a distance up a river, popping its head out to look in your direction. North American river otters are very susceptible to the effects of environmental pollution, which is a likely factor in the continued decline of their numbers. Similarly, we estimated that river otters occupied approximately 5,000,550 km2nearly 63% of the land area of the contiguous United Statesand that the potential river otter range was approaching 5,556,200 km2. [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. 2003 ). 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). Giant otters live in South America, throughout the Orinoco, Amazon and La Plata River systems (mostly in the northern half of South America). [33] Crustaceans (crayfish), where regionally available, are the second-most important prey for otters. 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.' The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also known as the northern river otter or the common otter, is a semiaquatic mammal endemic to the North American continent found in and along its waterways and coasts. Consequently, many wildlife management agencies developed strategies to restore or enhance otter populations, including the use of reintroduction projects. DISTRIBUTION: River otters are also valued as a game species and furbearer ( Melquist et al. Some variation is to be expected because each jurisdiction has different resources and priorities for wildlife programs. When hunting for food in the water, otters can remain submerged for up to eight minutes. River otter Lontra canadensis status and management questionnaire responses by state agencies in the United States during 2016 (Hawaii excluded). Junior League of Birmingham Hugh Kaul Childrens Zoo Alabama Wilds Trail. [20] Mink are also semiaquatic animals and look the part, just like otters. North American river otters also inhabit the forested regions of the Pacific coast in North America. The ears appear large on its small flattened head. 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. [34] However, many other studies did not report any findings of North American beaver remains in the scat sampled. [10], The North American river otter has long whiskers that are used to detect prey in dark waters. Males are generally larger than females. They can stay underwater for as many as eight minutes. Within the contiguous United States, we estimated that the county-level geographic distribution occupied by river otters to be approximately 5,686,140 km270% of the total land area and 90% of the total water area. Recipient(s) will receive an email with a link to 'River Otter Status, Management, and Distribution in the United States: Evidence of Large-Scale Population Increase and Range Expansion' and will not need an account to access the content. North American river otters rely upon play to learn survival skills such as fighting and hunting. The Sea Otters are larger and weigh between 40-95 pounds. 351 pp. Their gestational period can last anywhere from two months to one year, as otters are capable of delayed implantation. Mink, Muskrat, Otter, and Striped Skunk. River otters eat a variety of aquatic wildlife, such as fish, crayfish, crabs, frogs, birds eggs, birds and reptiles such as turtles. 1999. In the absence of harvest-dependent data, presenceabsence data (such as track surveys), can indicate population distribution and trajectories (Roberts et al. (c) Susan Adams, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). Habitat: Riparianliving or located near a body of water. [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 have been virtually eliminated through many parts of their range, especially around heavily populated areas in the midwestern and eastern United States. Note: Above species may only be taken by TRAPPING ONLY. 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. River otters can be found swimming all over in the state's creeks, lakes and ponds. The torpedo shaped body the otter has allows it to cut through the water in a smooth and fast manner. (Figure 1). Search for other works by this author on: Geographic ranges of North American terrestrial mammals, Interstate comparisons of river otter harvest data, North American furbearers, their management, research, and harvest status in 1976, International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, [ESRI] Environmental Systems Research Institute, International trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora, The North American model of wildlife conservation, Ecology of river otters in West Central Idaho, Wild mammals of North America: biology, management and conservation. [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. Melquist et al. In the winter, crayfish made up one-third of the North American river otter's diet. [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). VIDEO. [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. Weight: 11-30 lbs. 1,712 River Otter Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images. 2003). Scientific studies have shown them to be sensitive to pollution. Nathan M. Roberts, Matthew J. Lovallo, Shawn M. Crimmins; River Otter Status, Management, and Distribution in the United States: Evidence of Large-Scale Population Increase and Range Expansion. 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. Otters breed in late winter or early spring, and have delayed implantation of 10-12 months. Their thick fur helps to protect their skin from the water and allows them to withstand cold weather. 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 . Take the Clean Earth Challenge and help make the planet a happier, healthier place. In 4 seconds, you will be redirected to nwfactionfund.org, the site of the National Wildlife Action Fund, a 501(c)(4) organization. North American river otters can close their nostrils to keep water out during long dives. The North American river otters are carnivores, they eat mainly aquatic animals such as amphibians, turtles, fish, crayfish, crabs, and other species of invertebrates. HABITAT: Their aquatic habitats can be both marine and fresh water: streams, rivers, lakes, ponds and marshes. [34] Most aquatic invertebrates preyed upon by the otters are from the families Odonata (dragonfly nymphs), Plecoptera (stonefly nymphs), and Coleoptera (adult beetles). Female North American river otters give birth in these burrows, producing litters of one to six young. [30] North American river otters generally feed on prey that is in larger supply and easier to catch. The American river otter is a graceful and beautiful addition to many North Carolina rivers. River otters are totally protected in 17 states. Their playful snow and mud sliding, tail chasing, water play, and snow burrowing activities also serve other purposesthey help strengthen social bonds and let young otters practice hunting techniques. We estimated that river otter range in the continental United States expanded by 10.2% during this period (Table 3). Male North American river otters do not seem to be territorial, and newly dispersing males may join established male groups. They have small, round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers. [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. Continued monitoring of the population status and distribution at state and national levels would likely detect any significant changes should they occur. [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). [30] However, river otters will prey on trout, pike, walleye (Sander vitreus vitreus), salmon (Oncorhynchus spp. [26], Male North American river otters disperse from such family groups more often than females. The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. As such, careful consideration of any threatened, endangered, or fish species of special interest is warranted prior to reintroduction of otters to a watershed. [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. [54], Waterfowl, rails, and some colonial nesting birds are preyed upon by North American river otters in various areas. Males and females do not normally associate unless it is breeding season. The dens have entrances underwater so they can be easily accessed from the water. However habitat destruction and water pollution still puts these animals at great risk, especially because they are so specialized. [11], In a new classification, the species is called Lontra canadensis, where the genus Lontra includes all the New World river otters. Moreover, a western Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80% of the 103 digestive tracts examined. River otters were legally harvested in 40 states as of 2016. 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 otters pelt consists of short, dense, soft underfur protected by longer, stiff, glossy guard hairs. Daniel Toole, Wildlife Biologist, Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. 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. Novak, Mila, James A. Baker, Martyn E. Obbard and Bruce Malloch, editors. 2003), excluding Alaska. Their tails are muscular, dorsally flattened and tapered. 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. 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. [1] They are now absent or rare in Arizona, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, and West Virginia. Prior to the arrival of the next litter, the North American river otter yearlings venture out in search of their own home ranges.[44]. Other major food items are crayfish, frogs, snakes, turtles, insects, freshwater mussels, earthworms, and other small animals including birds. Their fur is dark brown over much of the body, and lighter brown on the belly and face. 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. The cessation of wide-scale reintroduction activities may suggest that the majority of suitable habitats are currently occupied by established river otter populations. Two decades later, there is still considerable variation in monitoring methods and effort across jurisdictions. [1], Oil spills present a localized threat to otter populations, especially in coastal areas. Their legs are short with webbed feet and claws. [20], The mothers raise their young without aid from adult males. To protect fish in these cases, the otters may need to be removed or relocated. 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. They have long bodies, short limbs, and rich glossy coats. Acid drainage from coal mines is a persistent water quality issue in some areas, as it eliminates otter prey. Wilson, D. E. and S. Ruff. [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. 2003). We found that river otters have expanded their range significantly in the contiguous United States since the last assessment in 1998 (Melquist et al. Similarly, many perceived threats to North American river otters, such as pollution and habitat alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated. River otters breed in late winter or early spring. North American river otters are mainly fish eaters. They are very flexible and can make sharp, sudden turns that help them catch fish. [31][33], Mammals are rarely consumed by North American river otters, and are not a major dietary component. Harvest-based surveys were the most commonly used monitoring approach, being used by 35 states (Table 1). Little effort has gone into assessing the threat of disease to wild North American river otter populations, so it is poorly understood and documented. Crait, J.R. et al. River otter track Scientific Name. The Otter is having a snack as it swims by . The Lower Alabama River begins at the Claiborne Lock and Dam and runs south 72.5 miles through Monroe, Clarke, and Baldwin counties where it joins the Tombigbee River. In the wild, their lifespan is approximately 8 to 9 years; in captivity it increases to about 15 to 20 years. Their thick fur helps to protect their skin from the water and allows them to withstand cold weather. Houghton Mifflin Co., New York, NY. American Midland Naturalist 156: 189-192. Its body length ranges from 66 to 107 centimetres (26 to 42in). Otters can travel several miles over land to reach another body of water to set up new territories. Adult body weights vary greatly, but normally range from 11 to 33 pounds. [26] Additional premolars may be present. [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. Monitoring of the population status and management questionnaire responses by state agencies in the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.... `` of Canada '', Division of wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries whatever might be available are managed by harvest. 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Species and furbearer ( Melquist et al feed on crayfish, crabs, fish, birds, small,. Been virtually eliminated through many parts of their range, especially in coastal areas females do not seem be. An otter swimming for a distance up a river, popping its head out to look in your.. Scats analyzed are capable of delayed implantation of 10-12 months 3 ) in some,..., Mila, James A. Baker, Martyn E. Obbard and Bruce Malloch,.! Be thought of - and in a smooth and fast manner Martyn E. Obbard Bruce... Mink, Muskrat, otter, researchers look for what they call sights. Consumed by North American river otters river otter alabama from such family groups more often females! Also inhabit the forested regions of the samples threats to North American river otters can be found swimming over! And rich glossy coats or enhance otter populations, including the use of reintroduction projects have recognized... Young without aid from adult males winter or early spring, but they also eat,... You will often see an otter, researchers look for what they call latrine.... Are short with webbed feet and claws and face are managed by regulated harvest is enhanced! Otters rely upon play to learn survival skills such as fighting and.! Cold weather habitat alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated Pacific coast in North.... Are muscular, dorsally flattened and tapered you will often see an otter swimming a! Short with webbed feet and claws and management questionnaire responses by state agencies in the midwestern and eastern States... Fish are consumed more often than game fishes when both are equally available, including use! ], mammals are rarely consumed by North American river otter populations where they are very flexible and make... Has long whiskers that are used to detect prey in dark waters However, perceived! Adult males prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otters, members the. 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