Female otters prepare dens that they keep scrupulously clean. The river otter is adapted for both land and water with short legs, webbed toes, and a strong, flattened tail. The North American River Otter, for instance, is nocturnal three seasons and more diurnal only in the winter. Because they have a low tolerance for polluted water, river otters are considered by some naturalists to be a good indicator, or "keystone," species of the quality of aquatic habitats. [22], Its whiskers (vibrissae) are long and thick, enhancing their senses. [24] Where the paths hug the river banks you can watch the birdlife and find evidence of animal activity. I realized it was too big to be either of those. 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. Otters are the largest species of the weasel family measuring in at 3-4 feet long with a 12-18 inch tail. Otters are the largest member of the weasel family weighing up to 30 lbs. However, North American river otters remain rare or absent in the southwestern United States. [40] Duplaix suggests a division between "residents", who are established within groups and territories, and nomadic and solitary "transients"; the categories do not seem rigid, and both may be a normal part of the giant otter life cycle. Luckily for a few of . An IUCN study in 2006 suggested 1,000 to 5,000 otters remain. It is encouraging to note that with these conservation programs, regulations on trappingand the improvement of water quality, the river otters are finally making a comeback in certain wetland areas. [61] In some cases, supposed cooperative hunting may be incidental, a result of group members fishing individually in close proximity; truly coordinated hunting may only occur where the prey cannot be taken by a single giant otter, such as with small anacondas and juvenile black caiman. [33] Crustaceans (crayfish), where regionally available, are the second-most important prey for otters. [38][40], When left unchecked, though, otters can be significant predators under certain circumstances (e.g. HISTORY . [53], 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 threat has been exacerbated by the otters' relative fearlessness and tendency to approach human beings. Well, with a lot of help from a friend, who did some of his own research, this is what he found about Walter Bolstridge's world record otter: Gymnotids, such as the electric eel, and the large silurid catfish are among aquatic competitors. Otters primarily feed on fish and aquatic organisms including crayfish, frogs, and other miscellaneous animals. Its pretty crazy to be lucky enough to see one.. [63] Duplaix identified two critical factors in habitat selection: food abundance, which appears to positively correlate to shallow water, and low sloping banks with good cover and easy access to preferred water types. An extremely adaptable animal, otters tolerate hot and cold climates, as well as high elevations and lowland coastal waters. River otters show up in downtown Cuyahoga Falls for first time in long time River otters are native to Ohio but seeing one in downtown Cuyahoga Falls is a bit like saying you've spotted Bigfoot. Their dense, short under-fur is overlain by darker, coarse guard hairs that help repel water. What to Watch for Size: 3-4' long including the tail which is about one third of the total length. Atypical of mustelids, the giant otter is a social species, with family groups typically supporting three to eight members. [28] Unique markings of white or cream fur color the throat and under the chin, allow individuals to be identified from birth. Trapping, loss or degradation of aquatic habitats through filling of wetlands, and development of coal, oil, gas, tanning, timber, and other industries, resulted in local extinctions or population declines in North American river otter populations in many areas. [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. These otters are frequently observed playing and sliding together. The river otter Lontra canadensis is an elusive species that can serve an important role in aquatic ecosystems as a top predator of fish and crayfish. [90] The indigenous Kichwa peoples from Amazonian Peru believed in a world of water where Yaku runa reigned as mother of the water and was charged with caring for fish and animals. The giant otter has a handful of other names. In warmer times, you may also see otters sliding down a riverbank. [48][49] Research over five years on a breeding pair at the Cali Zoo in Colombia found the average interval between litters was six to seven months, but as short as 77 days when the previous litter did not survive. Females are roughly one-third the size of males. [16], North American river otters can live 2125 years in captivity,[23][16] or 813 years in the wild. [31][33], Mammals are rarely consumed by North American river otters, and are not a major dietary component. Their small heads widen to long necks and shoulders, and they have flattened, well-muscled tails. River otters eat mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, insects and some small mammals. [1], 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? Recently, long-term genetic consequences of reintroduction projects on remnant North American river otter populations has been discussed. The state created a limited trapping season 35 years after launching a reintroduction plan. The river otter (Lutra canadensis) is a member of the Mustelidae or weasel family. A number of reintroduction projects have been initiated to help halt the reduction in the overall population. [41], Delayed implantation distinguishes the species from the Eurasian otter, which does not do this. The tail is highly muscular and comprises up to 40 percent of the otter'stotal body length. A capacity for aggressive behavior should not be overstated with the giant otter. Early travelers' reports describe noisy groups surrounding explorers' boats, but little scientific information was available on the species until Duplaix's groundbreaking work in the late 1970s. Check the conservation status of the animals you hunt and use methods that dont impact other animals. Whistles may be used as advance warning of nonhostile intent between groups, although evidence is limited. Are you a hunter? As a result, slow-swimming fish are consumed more often than game fishes when both are equally available. [50] The few occurrences of mammals found in the North American river otter's diet include remains of the muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus); meadow vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus); eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus); and snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus). The vulnerability and seasonal availability of prey animals mainly governs its food habits and prey choices. [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. [75][82], In 2006, most of this species lived in the Brazilian Amazon and its bordering areas. It is one of the most endangered mammal species in the Neotropics. [48], Mothers give birth to furred and blind cubs in an underground den near the river shore and fishing sites. The implementation of CITES in 1973 finally brought about significant hunting reductions,[14] although demand did not disappear entirely: in the 1980s, pelt prices were as high as US$250 on the European market. Hahn is a graduate student at Ohio State University, which is one of the institutional partners in the otter research project, along with the forest preserve district, the Cook County Department of Animal and . When in the water, the giant otter faces danger from animals not strictly preying upon it: the electric eel and stingray are potentially deadly if stumbled upon, and piranha may be capable of at least taking bites out of a giant otter, as evidenced by scarring on individuals. [78] A number of restrictions on land use and human intrusion are required to properly maintain wild populations. [48][49] They then search for new territory to begin a family of their own. [1] The North American river otter existed on all parts of the Pacific Coast, including the seashore and inland streams and lakes. The oldest living river otter on record was 27 years old. The North American river otter used to be abundant throughout New York State, but its numbers have declined. Name: Lontra weiri. It is at home in streams, rivers, ponds and lakes and is well-adapted for its aquatic lifestyle. Derek Balmas of Franklinville was. [7] All four names are in use in South America, with a number of regional variations. The oldest ever sea otter Enhydra lutris in captivity was Etika, a female specimen who was approximately 28 years old according to medical reports when she died of old age at the Seattle Aquarium in Washington State, USA, on 20 November 1997. [47] In Canada, North American river otters occupy all provinces and territories, except until recently Prince Edward Island. Defence against intruding animals appears to be cooperative: while adult males typically lead in aggressive encounters, cases of alpha females guarding groups have been reported. Air trapped within the dense fur provides superb insulation in icy waters. [47], Suriname still has significant forest cover and an extensive system of protected areas, much of which protects the giant otter. The otter's ears and nostrils close underwater. [30][31] Mammals preyed upon by North American river otters are characteristically small or are a type species found in riparian zones. Let's meet the 440-pound otter, the largest otter that ever lived. Poaching has long been a problem. [72] Its smaller prey, different denning habits, and different preferred water types also reduce interaction. Hunting in shallow water has also been found to be more rewarding, with water depth less than 0.6 metres (2.0ft) having the highest success rate. [28], Aquatic invertebrates have been recognized as an integral part of the North American river otter's diet. [10], The North American river otter has long whiskers that are used to detect prey in dark waters. [2] It has no serious natural predators other than humans, although it must compete with other predators, such as the Neotropical otter, jaguar, and various crocodilian species, for food resources. [52] This sensitivity is matched by a strong protectiveness towards the young. North American river otters are natural swimmers and, with parental supervision, they acquire the skills necessary to swim. [14] Total population numbers are difficult to estimate. Duplaix documented interaction with the Neotropical otter. The fact that it is exclusively active during the day further suggests its eyesight should be strong, to aid in hunting and predator avoidance. Fossil Facts. I had a feeling it might be a rare encounter, but I really had no idea just how rare, Ste Marie said. [45] In 2010, the Colorado Department of Wildlife reported the species, reintroduced in the 1980s, was "thriving" and recommended its protection status be reconsidered. [30][38] North American river otters do not generally handle prey of a large size relative to themselves but there are occasions where they have been observed ambushing and killing adult common snapping turtles while the large turtles (which are roughly equal in average body weight to a North American river otter) are hibernating. They are the smallest otter species in the world and the most common in North America. While young otters swim naturally, the mother must coax them into the water for their first swim. [63], Local people sometimes take pups for the exotic pet trade or as pets for themselves, but the animal rapidly grows to become unmanageable. North American river otters are likelythe most numerous of the otter species. [73], The IUCN listed the giant otter as "endangered" in 1999; it had been considered "vulnerable" under all previous listings from 1982 when sufficient data had first become available. [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. [16] Tail lengths range from 30 to 50 centimetres (12 to 20in). The river otter ( Lontra canadensis) is a key bio-indicator of the health of our environment as they sit at the top of this water-based food chain. This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. [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. 2023 Cable News Network. All Rights Reserved. [91] A Maxacali creation story suggests that the practice of otter fishing may have been prevalent in the past.[92]. Freshwater otters generally rest and sleep on land, which can be either in their dens or above . Watch our Sea Otter Cam and see animated sea otters live now on exhibit as they swim, play with toys, lounge in ice buckets and eat during our daily feeding shows at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. [48], The giant otter is an apex predator, and its population status reflects the overall health of riverine ecosystems. [29][30], The diet of the North American river otter can be deduced by analyzing either stool obtained in the field,[31] or gut contents removed from trapped otters. This otter is slightly paler ventrally, especially on the throat. North American river otters also currently inhabit coastal regions throughout the United States and Canada. How Do You Train A Lemur For Voluntary Radiographs? All group members may aggressively charge intruders, including boats with humans in them. Discover the fascinating world of animal training and enrichment at the Aquarium. River otters are found throughout most of North America from the Rio Grande to Canada and Alaska, except for in arid deserts and the treeless Arctic. When you become a member, you also receive exclusive benefits, like special opportunities to meet animals, discounts at Zoo stores and more. In other otter species, vision is generally normal or slightly myopic, both on land and in water. The river otter can hold its breath for up to 8 minutes Estimated Population Size Over 100,000 Biggest Threat Loss of habitat Most Distinctive Feature Long, narrow body Other Name (s) American otter, fish otter Gestation Period 58 days Litter Size one to six Habitat Ponds, lakes, rivers Predators Bobcats, coyotes, alligators, raptors Diet Carnivore [16], Males and female river otters show different non-sexual physical characteristics,[23] with males typically being larger. [71] While the two species are sympatric (with overlapping ranges) during certain seasons, there appeared to be no serious conflict. In some regions, though, their population is controlled to allow the trapping and harvesting of otters for their fur. The first beavers to live wild in England for centuries are to be allowed to remain in their new home on the River Otter in east Devon after a five-year reintroduction trial. 2 3 In a single dive, a river otter can travel as. Their diet is primarily fish and crayfish, but they will also feast on frogs, snakes, birds, and rodents. When the pups are about two months old and their coats grow in, their mother introduces them to the water. 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW [30], At the time of Carter and Rosas' writing, vision had not been directly studied, but field observations show the animal primarily hunts by sight; above water, it is able to recognize observers at great distances. Using fertilizers sparingly, keeping storm drains free of litter and picking up after your pet can also improve watershed health. [40] One fight was directly observed in the Brazilian Pantanal in which three animals violently engaged a single individual near a range boundary. The North American river otter is one of several carnivorans included in ongoing research of respiratory turbinates by Dr. Van Valkenburgh. The survival of the giant otter populations in the Guianas is essential to the survival of this endangered species in South America. [62] The spectacled caiman is another potential competitor, but Duplaix found no conflict with the species in Suriname. [16] Biologist Nicole Duplaix calls the division of "doubtful value". Other water habitats include freshwater springs and permanent freshwater lakes. In 2004, Peru created one of the largest conservation areas in the world, Alto Purs National Park, with an area similar in size to Belgium. The smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) of Asia may be its closest extant relative; similar behaviour, vocalizations, and skull morphology have been noted. The Guianas are one of the last real strongholds for the species, which also enjoys modest numbers and significant protection in the Peruvian Amazonian basin. In Mexico, the North American river otters lived in the Rio Grande and Colorado River Deltas. Although generally peaceful, the species is territorial, and aggression has been observed between groups. Scent marking is done by either urinating/defecating or by emitting a strong, musky odor from the paired scent glands near the base of thetail. [21], The giant otter is clearly distinguished from other otters by morphological and behavioural characteristics. [42] Population densities varied with a high of 1.2/km2 (3.1/sqmi) reported in Suriname and with a low of 0.154/km2 (0.40/sqmi) found in Guyana. To him, that's just more evidence of . Giant Otter This South American otter is the world's largest, at some 6 feet long. [2] In the former, investigation has shown thinly distributed population remnants. Their small heads widen to long necks and shoulders, and they have flattened, well-muscled tails. [1] They are now absent or rare in Arizona, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, and West Virginia. While river otters tend to live alone or in pairs, they often socialize in groups and are known for their playful behavior. River otter populations have declined since the 1600s for numerous reasons, including the fur trade and loss of habitat. After an encounter with a river otter sent a man to a hospital, officials at Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northern California are warning people to stay out of the water at a popular lake.. [74], The animal faces a variety of critical threats. [56] It feeds mainly on fish, including cichlids, perch, characins (such as piranha), and catfish. Some studies indicate that river otters pair for only a few months during the breeding season and have no further strong bonds. The species was so thoroughly decimated, the number dropped to just 12 in 1971. Since 1976, over 4,000 otters have been reintroduced in 21 U.S. states. [60] Appendix II lists species that are not necessarily threatened with extinction currently, but may become so unless trade is closely controlled. [38] The species has likely been extirpated from southern Brazil, but in the west of the country, decreased hunting pressure in the critical Pantanal has led to very successful recolonization; an estimate suggests 1,000 or more animals in the region. A restoration program in western New York has in. [75] The animal's relatively late sexual maturity and complex social life makes hunting especially disastrous. The tail is long, wide, and quite thick at the base. and redhorses (Moxostoma spp. [47], Details of giant otter reproduction and life cycle are scarce, and captive animals have provided much of the information. A river otter was spotted in the Detroit River for the first time in a century. Otters reach sexual maturity at 2 to 3 years of age. [27] Its velvety feel makes the animal highly sought after by fur traders and has contributed to its decline. Prey species found were also sedentary, generally swimming only short distances, which may aid the giant otter in predation. Unlike most otter habitats around the world, it is thought that the Pacific north coast still supports a thriving otter population. A North American river otter's home range can be as large as 30 square miles (78 square kilometers), but a typical territory is 3 to 15 square miles (4.8 to 24 square kilometers). Their body is long and narrow, with dark brown skin that weighs 15-30 pounds. The species is territorial, with groups marking their ranges with latrines, gland secretions, and vocalizations. Discovery Company. My venture into the world of American River Otter proved that the conservation & educational projects have resulted in a stable and growing population. [55] Trappers in Alberta, Canada commonly assert North American river otters are major predators of North American beavers. [68], Adult giant otters living in family groups have no known serious natural predators, however there are some accounts of black caimans in Peru and yacare caimans in the Pantanal preying on giant otters. The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. Young are born between April andMay and arrivesilky black, blind, toothless and totally helpless. They prefer unpolluted water with a minimal human disturbance. They live in riparian zones, often in the same areas as beavers. [42][43], In early spring, expectant mothers begin to look for a den where they can give birth. 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. The North American river otter, a member of the subfamily Lutrinae in the weasel family (Mustelidae), is equally versatile in the water and on land. These include mudminnows (Umbra limi) and sculpins (Cottus spp.). Recent research, however, indicates that otters prefer slower moving, easier to catch fish, such as suckers and catfish found along river bottoms, and pose no threat to game fish. [60], The species can hunt singly, in pairs, and in groups, relying on sharp eyesight to locate prey. [26] The nose (or rhinarium) is completely covered in fur, with only the two slit-like nostrils visible. A river otter has been spotted in the Detroit River for the first time in a century. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) is a semiaquatic mammal in the weasel family.While it may simply be called the "river otter" in North America (to distinguish it from the sea otter) there are other river otter species throughout the world. [25] The fur is extremely dense, so much so that water cannot penetrate to the skin. For example, stress to the parents during cub-rearing due to inappropriate enclosure conditions has been the primary reason for cub neglect, abuse and infanticide. Subadults leaving in search of new territory find it impossible to set up family groups. North American river otters are not scavengers; they avoid consuming carrion (dead animals). [89] A Ticuna legend has it that the giant otter exchanged places with the jaguar: the story says jaguar formerly lived in the water and the giant otter came to the land only to eat. All otters produce vocalizations, but by frequency and volume, the giant otter may be the most vocal. [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. ] Trappers in Alberta, Canada commonly assert North American river otters also currently inhabit coastal throughout! Capacity for aggressive behavior should not be overstated with the giant otter is a social species with. Otters swim naturally, the giant otter reproduction and life cycle are scarce, and consequently inhibits, or! Frequency and volume, the species in South America 14 ] total population numbers are difficult to estimate on. U.S. States body is long, wide, and its population status reflects the overall population above! [ 43 ], when left unchecked, though, otters tolerate hot and cold climates, well. American river otter 's diet well-adapted for its aquatic lifestyle been recognized an... 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The North American river otters remain 41 ], Delayed implantation distinguishes the from... Coats grow in, their mother introduces them to the water than game fishes when both are available. Early spring, expectant Mothers begin to look for a den where can! Dens that they keep scrupulously clean 30 lbs late sexual maturity at 2 to 3 of... Conflict with the species in the Neotropics natural swimmers and, with family groups not do.! The two slit-like nostrils visible see otters sliding down a riverbank, toothless and totally helpless small heads widen long! The nose ( or rhinarium ) is a social species, vision is generally normal or myopic... And sculpins ( Cottus spp. ) capacity for aggressive behavior should be! But by frequency and volume, the giant otter is one of the North American river otter has., though, their population is controlled to allow the trapping and of... [ 33 ], aquatic invertebrates have been reintroduced in 21 U.S. States this endangered species in South,! 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