NORTH AMERICAN RIVER OTTER
Lontra canadensis
DESCRIPTION
The North American River Otter is a semi-aquatic mammal known for its playful behavior and agile swimming abilities. It has a streamlined body, webbed feet, and a thick fur coat that provides insulation in cold water.
FUN FACTS
- River otters can hold their breath underwater for up to 8 minutes | They have a special membrane that protects their eyes while swimming | Otters have a playful nature and often engage in sliding down snowy or muddy banks
QUICK INFO
Lifespan8-9 years in the wild, up to 21 years in captivity
Average Weight50-100 lbs
Average Length2-3 ft
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social StructureThey can be solitary or live in small family groups, often consisting of a mother and her young.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonLate winter to early spring
- Habitat
- North American River Otters inhabit a variety of aquatic environments, including rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation and access to water.
- Biomes
- Freshwater, Coastal
- Native Range
- They are found throughout North America, from Canada to the southern United States.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- Canada, United States, Mexico
- Diet
- River otters primarily eat fish, but they also consume crustaceans, amphibians, and small mammals. Their diet can vary based on the availability of food sources in their habitat.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- fish
- Social Structure
- They can be solitary or live in small family groups, often consisting of a mother and her young.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-6
- Territorial
- 1
LC
VU
50-100 lbs
Weight
2-3 ft
Length
- Coloration
- Dark brown fur with a lighter underbelly.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally larger than females.
- Lifespan
- 8-9 years in the wild, up to 21 years in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 60-63 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-6
- Sexual Maturity
- 2 years
- Breeding Season
- Late winter to early spring
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable in many areas, though local declines may occur due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 100,000+
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction, pollution, and vehicle collisions. They are also affected by hunting in some regions.
- Predators
- Coyotes, bobcats, and large birds of prey.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They use their agility in water and land to evade predators, and they can also produce loud vocalizations to warn others.
- Compatible Animals
- None
- Found in Zoos
- Common