Photo Credit: Doug Kjos

Habitat: North American river otters are found anywhere there is a permanent food supply and easy access to water. They can live in freshwater and coastal marine habitats, including rivers, lakes, marshes, swamps, and estuaries.

Size and Description: River otters weigh between 11 and 30.8 pounds. They are between 35 and 51.18 inches. Males are generally larger than females. North American river otters are semi-aquatic mammals, with long, streamlined bodies, thick tapered tails, and short legs. They have wide, rounded heads, small ears, and nostrils that can be closed underwater. The whiskers are long and thick, reflecting their importance in sensory perception. The fur is dark brown to almost black above and a lighter color ventrally. The throat and cheeks are usually a golden brown. The fur is dense and soft, effectively insulating these animals in water. The feet have claws and are completely webbed.

Diet:North American river otters eat mainly aquatic organisms such as amphibians, fish, turtles, crayfish, crabs, and other invertebrates. Birds, their eggs, and small terrestrial mammals are also eaten on occasion. They sometimes eat aquatic plants. In the zoo, they are fed mainly fish and a special meat diet.

Interesting Facts:

• North American river otters can live up to 21 years in captivity. They normally live about 8 to 9 years in the wild.
• Females can give birth to 1 to 6 young, with the average being 2-3.
• They are known as playful animals, exhibiting behaviors such as mud/snow sliding, burrowing through the snow, and water play. Many "play" activities actually serve a purpose. Some are used to strengthen social bonds, to practice hunting techniques, and to scent mark.