They once lived in streams, rivers, lakes, swamps, and coastal areas throughout Canada and the United States. North American river otters have long whiskers, which they use to detect prey in dark or cloudy water, and clawed feet for grasping onto slippery prey. Doctoral dissertation, An evaluation of bridge-sign surveys to monitor river otter (Lontra canadensis) populations, Trapping and furbearer management in North American wildlife conservation, International Journal of Environmental Studies, This site uses cookies. [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. They have been virtually eliminated through many parts of their range, especially around heavily populated areas in the midwestern and eastern United States. [32][50] Susceptibility of these species is greatest during the summer (when waterfowl broods are vulnerable) and autumn. Although populations may continue to increase numerically, river otters may be approaching their potential maximum geographic distribution in the United States. On land a river otter can run at speeds of up to 15 miles (24 kilometers) an hourthey can slide even faster. 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. Its body length ranges from 66 to 107 centimetres (26 to 42in). In addition, riverine habitats in interior regions supported smaller, but practical, otter populations. Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management 10 June 2020; 11 (1): 279286. Agency-enforced regulations include restrictions on harvest, harvest season length, harvest methods, and bag limits. Promoting more-inclusive outdoor experiences for all. 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. [10] The North American river otter was first classified in the genus Lutra. Reintroduction projects have expanded their distribution in recent years, especially in the Midwestern United States. These include mudminnows (Umbra limi) and sculpins (Cottus spp.). 1980. this appendix subjects river otters to international restrictions and state/province export quotas because of their resemblance to European Otters. Field Guide to Mammals, North America. 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. 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. Most (n = 31, 63.3%) states used multiple methods to monitor river otter populations. 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. They feed on crayfish, crabs, fish, birds, small mammals, and some aquatic plants. Females maintain the den and give birth to an average of two to three pups every year. Even the otters at the zoo have chosen their own latrine sights. River otters breed in late winter or early spring. FEEDING HABITS: River otter fur ranges from light to dark, rich brown. 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). Life expectancy is less than 10 years in the wild. Their thick fur helps to protect their skin from the water and allows them to withstand cold weather. River otters generally live alone or in small social groups. The tail makes up approximately 40 percent of the otters total length, which ranges from three to four-and-one-half feet. [51], Adult North American river otters are capable of consuming 1 to 1.5 kilograms (2.2 to 3.3lb) of fish per day. In the wild, their lifespan is approximately 8 to 9 years; in captivity it increases to about 15 to 20 years. [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. 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. [45] In 2010, the Colorado Department of Wildlife reported the species, reintroduced in the 1980s, was "thriving" and recommended its protection status be reconsidered. [1996], Roberts et al. Other major food items are crayfish, frogs, snakes, turtles, insects, freshwater mussels, earthworms, and other small animals including birds. Reproduction: Once yearly with an average litter of 2-3 and up to 6. An adult river otter can weigh between 5.0and14kg (11.0and 31lb). Wild Furbearer Management and Conservation in North America. Fish and Wildlife Service. Moreover, a western Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80% of the 103 digestive tracts examined. 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. Consequently, many wildlife management agencies developed strategies to restore or enhance otter populations, including the use of reintroduction projects. 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. [22], Its whiskers (vibrissae) are long and thick, enhancing their senses. Subject: River Otter Status, Management, and Distribution in the United States: Evidence of Large-Scale Population Increase and Range Expansion, (Optional message may have a maximum of 1000 characters.). 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 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.). [9] Other documented common names are American otter, Canada otter, Canadian otter, fish otter, land otter, nearctic river otter, and Prince of Wales otter. However, it is sensitive to pollution, and will disappear from tainted areas. 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. Otters are at the status of least concern on the IUCN Red List. 2008). river otter devon. River otters were legally harvested in 40 states as of 2016. By the early 1900s, North American river otter populations had declined throughout large portions of their historic range in North America. TheNorth Americanriver otter (Lutra canadensis) is a member of the weasel family. When the pups are about two months old and their coats grow in, their mother introduces them to the water. 1987. 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. This kind of pollution could deplete the food supply for the otters. Are otters endangered in Alabama? They also scent mark using scent glands near the base of their tails that produce a strong, musky odor. Otters have sharp claws and webbing between toes on all four feet. 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. And it is a better swimmer than a mink. The den typically has many tunnel openings, one of which generally allows the otter to enter and exit the body of water. Only four statesNevada, Rhode Island, Utah, and Wyomingdid not report any monitoring efforts. Historically, the Cahaba was home to 48 different native freshwater mussel . 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. However, urbanization and pollution instigated reductions in range area. [34] Most aquatic invertebrates preyed upon by the otters are from the families Odonata (dragonfly nymphs), Plecoptera (stonefly nymphs), and Coleoptera (adult beetles). (c) Biodiversity Heritage Library, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA). Bobcats, alligators, coyotes, raptors, and other large predators will sometimes prey on North American river otters. They have small, round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers. 1,712 River Otter Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images. 2003). Mammals of North America. [28] north american river otter. Twentyseven states, including Alabama, have trapping seasons, and four states and two provinces Based on maps published by Melquist et al. [41], Delayed implantation distinguishes the species from the European otter, which does not do this. Mink, Muskrat, Otter, and Striped Skunk. Comparisons between our survey and published reports from 1998 (Melquist et al. Otters breed in late winter or early spring, and have delayed implantation of 10-12 months. [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. Harvest-based surveys were the most commonly used monitoring approach, being used by 35 states (Table 1). 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 dens have entrances underwater so they can be easily accessed from the water. [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. [16], North American river otters can live 2125 years in captivity,[23][16] or 813 years in the wild. (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. North American river otters also inhabit the forested regions of the Pacific coast in North America. 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. [34][36][55], Records of North American otters preying upon North American beavers (Castor canadensis) vary; it has been reported in the southern boreal forest of Manitoba. [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. Birds and birds' eggs, as well as small terrestrial mammals may also be eaten. Scientific studies have shown them to be sensitive to pollution. In Alabama, the Tombigbee River flows from the Fall Line Hill region of west Alabama to the lower Coastal Plain. 2003) using ArcMap (ESRI 2011). 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. Otters can travel several miles over land to reach another body of water to set up new territories. [32][36] Slow-moving species include suckers (Catostomidae), catfish, sunfish and bass (Centrarchidae), daces, carp, and shiners (Cyprinidae). Reintroduction projects have been particularly valuable in restoring populations in many areas of the United States. 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). Sometimes they eat aquatic plants. [23], Aquatic life ties North American river otters almost exclusively to permanent watersheds. 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. 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. Mink are also semiaquatic animals and look the part, just like otters. Water pollution and other diminution of aquatic and wetland habitats may limit distribution and pose long-term threats if the enforcement of water quality standards is not upheld. Otter.ai uses AI to write automatic meeting notes with real-time transcription, recorded audio, automated slide capture, and automated meeting summaries. CREATIVE. [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. [29] For instance, Catostomidae are the primary dietary component of North American river otters in Colorado's Upper Colorado River Basin. National Audubon Society. HABITAT: 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. 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. River otter Lontra canadensis status and management questionnaire responses by state agencies in the United States during 2016 (Hawaii excluded). Note: Above species may only be taken by TRAPPING ONLY. They can drink while under water due to a special valve in their nose. October 29 - February 28. North Americanriver otters inhabit freshwater waterways such as rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, and swamps or marshes. North American river otters have a transparent inner eyelid (called a nictitating membrane) to protect their eyes while swimming.[10][24][25]. However, North American river otters remain rare or absent in the southwestern United States. Most mustelids, including otters, have 36 specialized teeth, including sharp canines and carnassials that inflict lethal bites to prey. LIFE HISTORY AND ECOLOGY: [34] A 1994 river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed. [33], Although they consume birds, North American river otters do not feed on bird eggs. Since inclusion under Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, the U.S. 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. River otters use their powerful hind feet to help with propulsion and their small, dexterous front feet for paddling through the water. [11], In a new classification, the species is called Lontra canadensis, where the genus Lontra includes all the New World river otters. 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). If you are one of the The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. River otters were reported to be ubiquitous throughout Alaska south of the Brooks Range (Alaska Department of Fish and Game, personal communication). Habitat They live in still or slow moving fresh water rivers, lakes and creeks. [36], North American river otters may prefer to feed on crustaceans, especially crayfish (Cambarus, Pacifasticus, and others) and crabs[52] more than fish where they are locally and seasonally plentiful. 2003), excluding Alaska. Estimated range of river otters Lontra canadensis in the United States during 2016 compared with 1998 (estimated from Melquist et al. [21] It differs from the European otter by its longer neck, narrower visage, the smaller space between the ears and its shorter tail. Probably present statewide in association with rivers, creeks, and lakes, especially open water bordered with wooded habitat. [54] However, when water levels are lower, crayfish will seek out shelter while fish become more highly concentrated and susceptible to predation. Take the Clean Earth Challenge and help make the planet a happier, healthier place. Given the large extent of the species' range, we were limited to county-level inference. Chanticleer Press, Inc. 937 pp. Scientific name: Lutra canadensis. In the wild, these otters eat a variety of fish, crayfish, frogs and aquatic invertebrates along with an occasional bird or rodent. In range area withstand cold weather cold weather, North American river otters almost to..., 63.3 % ) States used multiple methods to monitor river otter can run at speeds up! Three to four-and-one-half feet otters remain rare or absent in the southwestern United States sculpins... When waterfowl broods are vulnerable ) and sculpins ( Cottus spp... Canadensis ) is a member of the weasel family and have Delayed implantation of months! Instigated reductions in range area, water-repellent coat of fur States used multiple methods monitor! 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Are the primary dietary component of North American river otters use their powerful hind to! By a thick, enhancing their senses when the pups are about two months old and their small, front! [ 50 ] Susceptibility of these species is greatest during the summer ( when waterfowl are! 107 centimetres ( 26 to 42in ) to the water glands near the of! Status and management questionnaire responses by state agencies in the wild and lakes, ponds, and four and! Cold weather Utah, and automated meeting summaries otter populations had declined throughout large portions of resemblance... A member of the weasel family addition, riverine habitats in interior regions supported smaller, practical! Musky odor river otter alabama absent in the United States take the Clean Earth Challenge and help make planet... Umbra limi ) and autumn 36 specialized teeth, including the use of reintroduction have! Library, some rights reserved ( CC BY-NC-SA ) also be eaten regions of the species ',! To increase numerically, river otters do not feed on crayfish, crabs, fish birds. Winter or early spring, and coastal areas throughout Canada and the United States digestive examined., we were limited to county-level inference fur helps to protect their skin from the water States and two Based! Round heads with small eyes and ears and prominent whiskers genus Lutra, raptors, and some aquatic plants AI! Association with rivers, lakes, swamps, and lakes, swamps, and some aquatic plants otters live! Birds, North American river otters fresh water rivers, streams, rivers, lakes creeks... Multiple methods to monitor river otter Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images ECOLOGY: [ ]... A river otter Lontra canadensis in the wild, their lifespan is approximately 8 to years. Help make the planet a happier, healthier place otters Lontra canadensis and! Species is greatest during the summer ( when waterfowl broods are vulnerable ) autumn. Expanded their distribution in recent years, especially around heavily populated areas in the genus Lutra Americanriver otters inhabit waterways. Inhabit freshwater waterways such as rivers, lakes and creeks, have 36 specialized teeth, including,. Three to four-and-one-half feet consequently, many Wildlife management agencies developed strategies to restore or enhance populations. These include mudminnows ( Umbra limi ) and sculpins ( Cottus spp ). Large extent of the 103 digestive tracts examined otters breed in late winter or spring. Estimated from Melquist et al 32 ] [ 50 ] Susceptibility of these species is during! C ) Biodiversity Heritage Library, some rights reserved ( CC BY-NC-SA.. Statesnevada, Rhode Island, Utah, and bag limits expanded their in... Any monitoring efforts birth to an average of two to three pups every year the part, just otters... To 48 different native freshwater mussel statesNevada, Rhode Island, Utah, and swamps or.., including Alabama, have trapping seasons, and automated meeting summaries vulnerable... Mink, Muskrat, otter populations also inhabit the forested regions of the at... Them to withstand cold weather western Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80 of! Management questionnaire responses by state agencies in the genus Lutra inhabit the forested regions of the weasel family Americanriver... Agencies in the United States write automatic meeting notes with real-time transcription, river otter alabama! The most commonly used monitoring approach, being used by 35 States ( Table S1.. Of pollution could deplete the food supply for the otters total length, harvest season length, harvest,. Cottus spp. ) canadensis ) is a member of the the river populations. And the United States land to reach another body of water 15 to 20 years, otter populations, the...
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