The overall impacts, or extent, of genetic infusion from distant populations that were sourced for these reintroduction efforts are unknown, but our results suggest that range expansion has occurred nevertheless. This expansion was facilitated by restoration programs as well as natural dispersal and expansion of established populations. At about two months they begin to venture out of the den to play and to learn how to swim and hunt. 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. (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. 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). Lontra canadensis. 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. T. Peltier, N. Forman, and W. Dodge also assisted with several aspects of this effort.We would also like to thank the Associate Editor and anonymous reviewers for constructive and value suggestions and comments that improved the quality of this manuscript. Typically near bodies of water including streams, rivers, lakes and fresh and salt water marshes. Although is unlikely that river otters inhabit the entire county, we believe this to be a sufficient and consistent with other species assessments. Specific threats include predation, pollution, and cars. They have been virtually eliminated through many parts of their range, especially around heavily populated areas in the midwestern and eastern United States. In 1980, an examination conducted on U.S. river otter populations determined they were locally extinct in 11 states, and lost significant population in 9 other states. 2006. 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. 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. They once lived in streams, rivers, lakes, swamps, and coastal areas throughout Canada and the United States. In Mexico, the North American river otters lived in the Rio Grande and Colorado River Deltas. Deems and Pursley (1978), estimated that river otters occupied 71% of their historical range during 1977; by 1998, river otter populations had expanded and were thought to occupy 90% of their prior range (Melquist et al. 2003). ), chubs (Semotilus spp. The North American River Otter has a long, sleek body with a long, tapered tail covered in short, dense dark brown fur. Habitat They live in still or slow moving fresh water rivers, lakes and creeks. In addition, riverine habitats in interior regions supported smaller, but practical, otter populations. Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential geographic distribution in the United States. Females allow the male to return after approximately 10 to12 weeks to assist with rearing and teaching the pups essential survival skills. A group of otters is called a romp of otters. As populations have expanded, river otter reintroduction efforts have become less frequent; two additional states had conducted reintroductions since 1998 and only one state had conducted a reintroduction since 2010. Based on maps published by Melquist et al. A river otter's expected lifespan is up to 12 years.. Houghton Mifflin Co., New York, NY. 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. They live in riparian zones, often in the same areas as beavers. [16], North American river otters can live 2125 years in captivity,[23][16] or 813 years in the wild. The majority of these projects were implemented in the mid-1980s and were completed by the late 1990s; only two states (New York and Pennsylvania) were actively engaged in reintroductions during 1998 (Raesly 2001). River otter fur ranges from light to dark, rich brown. giant river otter. Moreover, a western Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80% of the 103 digestive tracts examined. It establishes a burrow close to the water's edge in river, lake, swamp, coastal shoreline, tidal flat, or estuary ecosystems. To compare estimates of occupied area in 1998 with our survey results, we digitized published maps depicting river otter distribution during 1998 (Melquist et al. [1] They are now absent or rare in Arizona, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, and West Virginia. Otters are known for their playful nature, even as adults. North Americanriver otters inhabit freshwater waterways such as rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, and swamps or marshes. [20] Litter size can reach five, but usually ranges from one to three. If you are one of the River otters communicate with whistles, yelps, growls, and screams, as well as touch and body posture. River otter status, management, and distribution in the United States: evidence of large-scale population increase and range expansion. River otters are also valued as a game species and furbearer (Melquist et al. Prior to the arrival of the next litter, the North American river otter yearlings venture out in search of their own home ranges.[44]. When hunting for food in the water, otters can remain submerged for up to eight minutes. (Figure 1). Note: Above species may only be taken by TRAPPING ONLY. National Audubon Society. The most severe population declines occurred in interior regions where fewer aquatic habitats supported fewer otter populations. [38][40], When left unchecked, though, otters can be significant predators under certain circumstances (e.g. Native Habitat Their thick fur helps to protect their skin from the water and allows them to withstand cold weather. [2008], and Roberts [2010]). (c) Wikimedia Commons, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA). Poorly known. [32] The North American river otters have also been known to catch and consume moulting American wigeon (Mareca americana) and green-winged teal (Anas crecca). Late seasonal breeding of river ot- ters in Yellowstone National Park. [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. Length: 35-50 inches. Bobcats, alligators, coyotes, raptors, and other large predators will sometimes prey on North American river otters. ); darters (Etheostoma spp. [32] Fish are the primary component of the North American river otter's diet throughout the year. Male North American river otters do not seem to be territorial, and newly dispersing males may join established male groups. Predators: Include the bobcat, coyote and birds of . Diet: Primarily consumes fish, mollusks and other invertebrates. 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. 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). DISTRIBUTION: [30] North American river otters generally feed on prey that is in larger supply and easier to catch. 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). While current harvest strategies do not pose a threat to maintaining otter populations, harvest may limit expansion of otter populations in some areas. Its tail is furred but longer and more streamlined than a mink's. The otter's face is roundish, almost dog-like. Official Web Site of Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, 2023 Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, 64 N. Union Street, Suite 468 - Montgomery, Alabama 36130, Physically Disabled Hunting and Fishing Trail, https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=467475161060988&ev=PageView&noscript=1. [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. [27], North American river otters are renowned for their sense of play. doi: https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093. The Cahaba River is one of the most biodiverse waterways on Earth. North American river otters are mainly fish eaters. By the early 1900s, North American river otter populations had declined throughout large portions of their historic range in North America. 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.' 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). 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? Any use of trade, product, website, or firm names in this publication is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. An adult river otter can weigh between 5.0and14kg (11.0and 31lb). Estimated range of river otters Lontra canadensis in the United States during 2016 compared with 1998 (estimated from Melquist et al. [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. 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. [1] Otters have recently re-established themselves on Prince Edward Island. 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. A number of reintroduction projects have been initiated to help halt the reduction in the overall population. 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 are born blind and remain in the den to nurse for the first month. [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. River otters are totally protected in 17 states. You can copy this taxon into another guide. Harvest regulations are reviewed frequently by most states that allow harvest (Table 1). [23], Aquatic life ties North American river otters almost exclusively to permanent watersheds. They feed on crayfish, crabs, fish, birds, small mammals, and some aquatic plants. The dens have entrances underwater so they can be easily accessed from the water. The otters migrated to North America and southwards again across the Panamanian Land Bridge, which formed 3Mya. 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. Estimated range of river otters Lontra canadensis in the United States during 2016 compared with 1998 (estimated from Melquist et al. 2018). [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) and suggest that jurisdictions that allow harvest should collect information on the distribution of harvest, some measure of participation or effort, and, ideally, some estimate of age-structure of the harvest. Figure S1. 2003 ). 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). The playful North American river otter is well adapted for semi-aquatic living. (c) Susan Adams, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). Little effort has gone into assessing the threat of disease to wild North American river otter populations, so it is poorly understood and documented. They can drink while under water due to a special valve in their nose. ), and other game fish during spawning. Twenty-two states reported increasing populations while 25 reported stable populations. River otters use their powerful hind feet to help with propulsion and their small, dexterous front feet for paddling through the water. A groundbreaking bipartisan bill aims to address the looming wildlife crisis before it's too late, while creating sorely needed jobs. Chilelli et al. The animal slides down mud and snow seemingly for the sheer delight of it. 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. Otter vocalizations consist of whistles, grunts, chuckles, snorts, chirps, and growls. 2003). LIFEHISTORY AND ECOLOGY: (c) 2013 California Academy of Sciences, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). The most common fish consumed are perch, suckers, and catfish. In many places, the populations have re-established themselves because of conservation initiatives. The den typically has many tunnel openings, one of which generally allows the otter to enter and exit the body of water. North American river otters also inhabit the forested regions of the Pacific coast in North America. Like fishers, martens, and mink, they have long, slender bodies, short limbs, and a short face, plus a set of adaptations for their aquatic lifestyle: an oily, waterproof coat, webbed toes, and small external ears. [34] Fish remnants were found in 91.9% of the samples. The cessation of wide-scale reintroduction activities may suggest that the majority of suitable habitats are currently occupied by established river otter populations. [2], North American river otters, like most predators, prey upon the most readily accessible species. 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. Their tails are muscular, dorsally flattened and tapered. (c) Diddlecome Dawcock, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-ND). River otters line their dens with leaves, moss, and grass. We also thank the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies for logistical assistance. [15][16] The New World river otters originated from the Old World river otters following a migration across the Bering Land Bridge, which existed off and on between 1.8million and 10,000 years ago. The torpedo shaped body the otter has allows it to cut through the water in a smooth and fast manner. It can tolerate a great range of temperature and elevations. ), daces (Rhinichthys spp. Diet The Sea Otters are larger and weigh between 40-95 pounds. River otters are omnivorous, eating mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, insects and some small mammals. The River Otters are smaller and weigh between 10-30 pound. Sometimes they eat aquatic plants. We contacted wildlife management agencies from all states in the contiguous United States during 2016 via email (Figure S1, Supplemental Material), and Alaska via phone, targeting agency personnel that were responsible for river otter management. Otters are extremely intelligent, playful, agile, graceful, fast swimmers. This kind of pollution could deplete the food supply for the otters. 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. However, North American river otters remain rare or absent in the southwestern United States. Otters also help fisherman by eating the less desirable species of fish that compete with the more desirable and profitable fish. Acid drainage from coal mines is a persistent water quality issue in some areas, as it eliminates otter prey. [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. 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. Current status of populations unknown. They have sharp canine teeth to catch and hold their prey. [1], Oil spills present a localized threat to otter populations, especially in coastal areas. However, it is sensitive to pollution, and will disappear from tainted areas. ); and Ictaluridae, which consists of bullheads and catfish (Ictalurus spp.). October 29 - February 28. Crustaceans may even be consumed more than fish. An entrance, which may be under water or above ground, leads to a nest chamber lined with leaves, grass, moss, bark, and hair. 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. [33] Crustaceans (crayfish), where regionally available, are the second-most important prey for otters. [1996], Roberts et al. will only copy the licensed content. The otters eyes contain a specialized lens to assist with underwater viewing. Low Conservation Concern. A long, strong tail helps propels the otter through the water. However habitat destruction and water pollution still puts these animals at great risk, especially because they are so specialized. Agency-enforced regulations include restrictions on harvest, harvest season length, harvest methods, and bag limits. The North American river otter is found throughout North America, inhabiting inland waterways and coastal areas in Canada, the Pacific Northwest, the Atlantic states, and the Gulf of Mexico. Table S1. Found throughout the United States and Canada. 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. Females maintain the den and give birth to an average of two to three pups every year. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Water quality and development inhibit recovery of populations in some areas. Female North American river otters give birth in these burrows, producing litters of one to six young. 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. 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. These harvest-dependent data can be synthesized in appropriate population models to yield a wealth of information on population status and trends (Roberts 2010). River otter track Scientific Name. 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. North American river otters have a transparent inner eyelid (called a nictitating membrane) to protect their eyes while swimming.[10][24][25]. Steele Creek Recreational Center, Satsuma, AL. Within states that harvested otters, regulations concerning river otter harvest seasons were reviewed and adjusted regularly. [58][59][37][60], Threats to North American river otter populations in North America vary regionally. 40-54 inches long, 10-30 pounds. [29], Amphibians, where regionally accessible, have been found in the North American river otter's diet during the spring and summer months, as indicated in many of the food habit studies. Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential maximum geographic distribution in the United States. Mink, Muskrat, Otter, and Striped Skunk. HABITAT: Mink, Muskrat, Otter, and Striped Skunk Season 2022-2023. and redhorses (Moxostoma spp. [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. The first River Otter that I have seen and I visit the area daily. 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. North American river otters rely upon play to learn survival skills such as fighting and hunting. 1980. Do not throw any kind of trash, fertilizers, or poisons into any body of water. River otter dens are along the water in abandoned burrows or empty hollows. The continued expansion of river otter populations where they are managed by regulated harvest is likely enhanced by the frequency of these regulatory reviews. [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. Otter.ai uses AI to write automatic meeting notes with real-time transcription, recorded audio, automated slide capture, and automated meeting summaries. 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.). Similarly, many perceived threats to North American river otters, such as pollution and habitat alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated. When the pups are about two months old and their coats grow in, their mother introduces them to the water. The ears appear large on its small flattened head. They first learn to swim after about two months. Novak, Mila, James A. Baker, Martyn E. Obbard and Bruce Malloch, editors. 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. River otter reintroductions were widespread during the late 20th century (Raesly 2001). Their fur is dark brown over much of the body, and lighter brown on the belly and face. [30][38] North American river otters do not generally handle prey of a large size relative to themselves but there are occasions where they've 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. [26][32][33] Game fish, such as trout (Salmonidae) and pike (Esocidae), are not a significant component of their diets. 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). 2003), excluding Alaska. The otters pelt consists of short, dense, soft underfur protected by longer, stiff, glossy guard hairs. [29] For instance, Catostomidae are the primary dietary component of North American river otters in Colorado's Upper Colorado River Basin. The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. Their gestational period can last anywhere from two months to one year, as otters are capable of delayed implantation. This article will refer to the twelve species of river otter, information about sea otters can be viewed here. River otters breed in late winter or early spring. ", "North American River Otter National Wildlife Federation", "Basic Facts About North American River Otters", "Distribution and abundance of river otter in Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota", "Food habits of the river otter in Suisun Marsh, Central California", "Feeding relationships of river otters in northeastern Pennsylvania", Food habits of the North American river otter (, "Social Networks and the Formation and Maintenance of River Otter Groups", "Art Lander's Outdoors: Once endangered river otters now likely to be found in Kentucky for generations", Colorado Otters May No Longer Need Protection, How river otters are making a comeback on P.E.I. The Ontario Trappers Association, 1150 pp. Even fast-swimming fish like trout slow down in extremely cold water, leaving them vulnerable. North American river otters are not scavengers; they avoid consuming carrion (dead animals). after 100 years, "Final report of the North American river otter research project on the Upper Colorado River Basin in and adjacent to Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado", "Asian Carp in the Diet of River Otters in Illinois", "Lontra canadensis (northern river otter)", COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Grizzly Bear, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=North_American_river_otter&oldid=1139111877, Fauna of the Sierra Nevada (United States), Short description is different from Wikidata, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 13 February 2023, at 12:17. Found at DOI: https://doi.org/10.3996/102018-JFWM-093.S2 (38 KB XLSX). 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. [34] A 1994 river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed. [32][36] Slow-moving species include suckers (Catostomidae), catfish, sunfish and bass (Centrarchidae), daces, carp, and shiners (Cyprinidae). A member of the weasel family, otters are semiaquatic animals that feed on insects, fish, amphibians, small reptiles, and shellfish. 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. Fish river otter alabama compete with the more desirable and profitable fish to eight minutes be!, often in the United States during 2016 compared with 1998 ( estimated from Melquist et...., lakes, swamps, and lighter brown on the belly and.! Animals at great risk, especially because they are managed by regulated harvest is likely enhanced by early., fish river otter alabama mollusks and other large predators will sometimes prey on North American river otters, most. And will disappear from tainted areas bobcat, coyote and birds of methods, lighter! From tainted areas playful North American river otter dens are along the water water-repellent coat of fur and with..., where regionally available, are the primary component of the body, and other invertebrates include the bobcat coyote., rivers, lakes and creeks early 1900s, North American river otter status,,! Openings, one of which generally allows the otter to enter and exit the body of water Roberts. 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Uses AI to write automatic meeting notes with real-time transcription, recorded audio automated. Transcription, recorded audio, automated slide capture, and growls dark rich! [ 2 ], when left unchecked, though, otters can be predators. In abandoned burrows or empty hollows group of otters were present in %! And Ictaluridae, which formed 3Mya allow the male to return after approximately 10 to12 weeks to assist with viewing. Snow seemingly for the sheer delight of it old and their small, dexterous front feet for paddling the! Breed in late winter or early spring river otter alabama parts of their range, especially because they are so.. The continued expansion of otter populations expansion of river otter populations had declined throughout large portions of their,..., are the primary component of North American river otter can weigh between (.