North American River Otter
ExploreMammal
North American River Otter
Lontra canadensis
River otters are playful mammals that live near water. They are excellent swimmers and catch fish for food.
Habitat: Rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
Appearance
The North American River Otter has a sleek, streamlined body covered in dense, dark brown fur, which is lighter on its belly. It features a long, muscular, tapering tail and short legs with webbed feet, making it distinct from bulkier beavers.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderCarnivoraFamilyMustelidaeGenusLontra
Category
MammalRarity
Common
Danger
3/5
Snaps
51
Interesting facts
A group of otters is playfully known as a "romp," "raft," or even a "bevy"!
North American River Otters can completely close their nostrils and ears when they dive underwater!
Otter dens, often abandoned beaver lodges, are called "holts" where they raise their pups!
Their unique musky scent markings, called "spraint," can surprisingly smell like violets!
Special abilities
Ability
Grip and Grasp
North American River Otters can expertly catch slippery fish with their strong paws and sharp claws because they are adapted for aquatic hunting.
Ability
Evasive Navigator
North American River Otters can quickly dart and weave through underwater obstacles because of their flexible spine and powerful tail.
Measurements & details
- Length
- 66-130 cm
- Weight
- 5-14 kg
- Lifespan
- 8-9 years
- Top Speed
- 29 km/h
- Litter Size
- 1-5
- Gestation
- 60-63 days
Diet & Feeding
These playful hunters feast on slippery fish, tasty crustaceans, and sometimes even small frogs!
Age differences: Young pups start with milk, then learn to hunt fish and other small aquatic prey.
Primary Foods
- Fish
- Crayfish
- Frogs
- Salamanders
Foraging Method
- Pursuit
Ecological connections
hunts
Brown Trout
Salmo trutta
Otters are skilled at catching these swift fish.
eats
Red Swamp Crayfish
Procambarus clarkii
An important food source, especially in some habitats.
eaten by
Coyote
Canis latrans
Opportunistic predator, especially young or vulnerable otters.
eaten by
Bald Eagle
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
May prey on pups or sick otters near the water.
depends on
American Beaver
Castor canadensis
Otters often use abandoned beaver lodges as dens.
Traits
Wildlife
Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!
Furry
Find adorable animals covered in a cozy coat of soft fur! Their fur helps them stay warm and protected in different environments.
Whiskered
Look for animals with cool whiskers, which help them feel their way around and understand their world!
Piscivorous
Discover amazing animals that love to eat fish! They're like expert underwater hunters, always on the lookout for a tasty meal from the rivers, lakes, and oceans.
Freshwater
Discover animals and plants that live in non-salty water, like rivers, lakes, and ponds! These watery homes are vibrant with life.
Aquatic
Discover amazing creatures that call water their home, whether it's oceans, rivers, or lakes! These habitats are full of incredible life.
Nocturnal
Explore the secret world of animals that come alive at night! They are wide awake when it's dark, using their amazing senses to find food and play.
Also known as
River Otter
Collections
Safety
Danger
3/5
Otters can bite if cornered — watch from a distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is North American River Otter?
66-130 cm
How much does North American River Otter weigh?
5-14 kg
How long does North American River Otter live?
8-9 years
How fast can North American River Otter move?
29 km/h
What does North American River Otter eat?
These playful hunters feast on slippery fish, tasty crustaceans, and sometimes even small frogs!
Where is North American River Otter usually found?
Rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
How does North American River Otter hunt?
Pursuit
How many babies does North American River Otter usually have?
1-5
Snap Map
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