They are the smallest otter species in the world and the most common in North America. [34] Other species of birds found within their diets include: northern pintail (Anas acuta); mallard (Anas platyrhynchos); canvasback (Aythya valisineria); ruddy duck (Oxyura jamaicensis); and the American coot (Fulica americana). [13] Both species also show strong pair bonding and paternal engagement in rearing cubs. Howdyshell said he was able to take video of the river otter to prove he and Molly weren't hallucinating. North American river otters, also called Canadian otters, have long, muscular, streamlined bodies with short legs and fully webbed feet bearing non-retractable claws. Hartig said that in 2019, river otters were observed in Lake Erie National Park, having swum across Lake Erie. River otters have been blamed for decimating game fish populations and are seen as a pest to eradicate by many game fishermen. North Andover, MA (01845) Today. [5] They are weaned by nine months and begin hunting successfully soon after. Subadults leaving in search of new territory find it impossible to set up family groups. 2 3 In a single dive, a river otter can travel as. In seasonally flooded areas, the giant otter may abandon campsites during the wet season, dispersing to flooded forests in search of prey. As a result, slow-swimming fish are consumed more often than game fishes when both are equally available. Josh Salmon,. Observe a sea otter . [59] If fish are unavailable, it will also take crabs, snakes, and even small caimans and anacondas. This makes it easier for the adults to catch enough fish for the growing young, and for the pups to learn how to catch fish. Using fertilizers sparingly, keeping storm drains free of litter and picking up after your pet can also improve watershed health. Otters are the largest member of the weasel family weighing up to 30 lbs. [2] In the former, investigation has shown thinly distributed population remnants. An entrance, which may be under water or above ground, leads to a nest chamber lined with leaves, grass, moss, bark, and hair. [2] Four specific vegetation types occur on one important creek in Suriname: riverbank high forest, floodable mixed marsh and high swamp forest, floodable low marsh forest, and grass islands and floating meadows within open areas of the creek itself. Gymnotids, such as the electric eel, and the large silurid catfish are among aquatic competitors. [29][30], The diet of the North American river otter can be deduced by analyzing either stool obtained in the field,[31] or gut contents removed from trapped otters. It is encouraging to note that with these conservation programs, regulations on trappingand the improvement of water quality, the river otters are finally making a comeback in certain wetland areas. 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW SmithsoniansNationalZoo& ConservationBiologyInstitute River otters use their powerful hind feet to help with propulsion and their small, dexterous front feet for paddling through the water. The giant otter is large, gregarious, and diurnal. [33], Although they consume birds, North American river otters do not feed on bird eggs. Let's meet the 440-pound otter, the largest otter that ever lived. Watch our Sea Otter Cam and see animated sea otters live now on exhibit as they swim, play with toys, lounge in ice buckets and eat during our daily feeding shows at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. [16], North American river otters can live 2125 years in captivity,[23][16] or 813 years in the wild. Utreras[65] presumed habitat requirements and availability would differ dramatically in the rainy season: estimating range sizes of 1.98 to as much as 19.55square kilometres (0.76 to 7.55sqmiles) for the groups. The giant otter is also rare in captivity; in 2003, only 60 animals were being held.[5]. Published 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. [26] Other fish an integral part of the North American river otters' diets are those that are often plentiful and found in large schools: sunfish (Lepomis spp. [60], The species can hunt singly, in pairs, and in groups, relying on sharp eyesight to locate prey. [12], Molecular biological techniques have been used to determine when the river otter and the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) of South America diverged. and over 3 feet long, are found across North America, although their range has been significantly damaged by hunting and habitat loss. It is regulated internationally under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) meaning commercial trade in specimens (including parts and derivatives) is prohibited. Sea otters weigh more around 45-90 pounds with large, furry faces. The most severe population declines occurred in interior regions where fewer aquatic habitats supported fewer otter populations. [21], The giant otter is clearly distinguished from other otters by morphological and behavioural characteristics. About the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Your Go-to Guide for a Winter Day at the Zoo, What's New at the Smithsonians National Zoo This Summer. For instance, an Alberta, Canada study involved the collection and analysis of 1,191 samples of North American river otter scat (feces) collected during each season. The giant otter seems to have evolved independently of Lontra in South America, despite the overlap. It is currently known principally from a single fossilised partial skull (including its snout, orbits and all upper teeth except for the first and second incisors, plus parts of its lower jaw and teeth), which was discovered in the Hadar Formation of Dikika, in Ethiopia's Afar Valley, and dates back to the Pliocene epoch, approximately 5.3-3.6 Among the Achuar people, they are known as wankanim,[8] among the Sanum as hadami[9][10] and among the Makushi as turara. 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. So he contacted some local experts who confirmed that river otters hadnt been seen in the Detroit River for 100 years. Otters are playful creatures, frequently seen sliding down riverbanks orburrowing through snow. [14], In 2021, conservationists at Fundacin Rewilding spotted a wild giant river otter swimming in the Bermejo River in Impenetrable National Park, located in the Chaco province of northeast Argentina. [20] [50] The few occurrences of mammals found in the North American river otter's diet include remains of the muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus); meadow vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus); eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus); and snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus). [46] In late 2012, a river otter nicknamed Sutro Sam took up residence around the former site of the Sutro Baths in San Francisco, the first river otter sighting in that city in more than half a century. Try Otter Spotters! [50] Fish species frequently found in the diets of the North American river otters include: Catostomidae, which consists of suckers (Catostomus spp.) Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. [20] Large male North American river otters can exceed a weight of 15 kilograms (33lb). As such, careful consideration of any threatened, endangered, or fish species of special interest is warranted prior to reintroduction of otters to a watershed. [13] The giant otter shares the South American continent with three of the four members of the New World otter genus Lontra: the Neotropical river otter, the southern river otter, and the marine otter. It lives only in the rivers and creeks of the Amazon, Orinoco, and La Plata river systems. Likewise, the potential predatory impact of otters may be considerable whenever fish are physically confined (most commonly in smaller ponds offering sparse cover or other escape options). ); Cyprinidae, made up of carp (Cyprinus spp. Their diet is primarily fish and crayfish, but they will also feast on frogs, snakes, birds, and rodents. [72] Its smaller prey, different denning habits, and different preferred water types also reduce interaction. North American river otters have a transparent inner eyelid (called a nictitating membrane) to protect their eyes while swimming. There was so much oil in the river that not only river otters but beavers could not live there. I realized it was too big to be either of those. [52], Studies of giant otters in captivity have given indications about the environment necessary to both maintain a physically and behaviorally healthy population and allow successful cub-rearing. However, North American river otters remain rare or absent in the southwestern United States. Females are roughly one-third the size of males. They live in riparian zones, which are the areas that border stream, rivers, and lakes. [26] The nose (or rhinarium) is completely covered in fur, with only the two slit-like nostrils visible. [9] The mammal was identified as a species of otter and has a variety of common names, including North American river otter, northern river otter, common otter and, simply, river otter. Preceding the settlement of North America by Europeans, North American river otters were prevalent among aquatic habitats throughout most of the continent. Adult river otters weigh 10 to 33 pounds (4.5 to 15 kilograms) and are about 2.5 to 5 feet (76 to 152 centimeters) in length. [25] The fur is extremely dense, so much so that water cannot penetrate to the skin. [4] Occasional reports also show the river otter eating other small animals, such as mice, squirrels, birds, and even dogs that they've attacked and drowned. They have been virtually eliminated through many parts of their range, especially around heavily populated areas in the midwestern and eastern United States. ); and Ictaluridae, which consists of bullheads and catfish (Ictalurus spp.). Quick hah barks or explosive snorts suggest immediate interest and possible danger. ), and other game fish during spawning. [23], North American river otters consume an extensive assortment of fish species ranging in size from 2 to 50 centimeters (0.79 to 19.69in) that impart sufficient caloric intake for a minute amount of energy expenditure. Detroit had incredible pollution, Hartig said. [91] A Maxacali creation story suggests that the practice of otter fishing may have been prevalent in the past.[92]. The groups are centered on a dominant breeding pair and are extremely cohesive and cooperative. [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). In Brazil it is known as ariranha, from the Tup word ari'raa, meaning water jaguar (Portuguese: ona-d'gua). North American river otters are not scavengers; they avoid consuming carrion (dead animals). Theyremain as a family unit for seven to eight months or until the birth of a new litter. They give birth between August and September, and the young pups emerge for the first time in October and November, which are the months of lowest water when fish concentrations in the dwindling lakes and channels are at their peak. North America's largest North American river otter populations were found in areas with an abundance and diversity of aquatic habitats, such as coastal marshes, the Great Lakes region, and glaciated areas of New England. They also inhabit the forested regions of the Pacific coast in North America. Similarly, many perceived threats to North American river otters, such as pollution and habitat alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated. Farmers follow, creating depleted soil and disrupted habitats. In some regions, though, their population is controlled to allow the trapping and harvesting of otters for their fur. [34] A 1994 river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed. [11], In a new classification, the species is called Lontra canadensis, where the genus Lontra includes all the New World river otters. breaks world record. ), and the maximum movement recorded was 7.3 km (4.5 mi.). [20] About one-third of the animal's total length consists of a long, tapered tail. The giant otter ranges across north-central South America; it lives mostly in and along the Amazon River and in the Pantanal. [48] The animal reaches sexual maturity at about two years of age and both male and female pups leave the group permanently after two to three years. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also known as the northern river otter and river otter, is a semiaquatic mammal that only lives on the North American continent, along its waterways and coasts. [19] An average adult male weighs about 11.3 kilograms (25lb) against the female's average of 8.3 kilograms (18lb). Recent research, however, indicates that otters prefer slower moving, easier to catch fish, such as suckers and catfish found along river bottoms, and pose no threat to game fish. Early travelers' reports describe noisy groups surrounding explorers' boats, but little scientific information was available on the species until Duplaix's groundbreaking work in the late 1970s. [32][36] Slow-moving species include suckers (Catostomidae), catfish, sunfish and bass (Centrarchidae), daces, carp, and shiners (Cyprinidae). They can dive up to 60 feet and stay underwater for as long as four minutes. [18] (The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) is the fourth Lontra member.) [70], Even if without direct predation, the giant otter must still compete with other predators for food resources. Their dense, short under-fur is overlain by darker, coarse guard hairs that help repel water. Make a donation to the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute today! Their long, agile bodies enable them to quickly twist , turn, roll and dive, and they are frequently seen sliding or burrowing in the mud or snow. About this Specimen The specimen was scanned by Matthew Colbert on 5 January 2006 along the coronal axis for a total of 705 slices. [53][56], Cases where otters have been ambushed and consumed by grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horribilis) and polar bears (Ursus maritimus) have also been reportedly witnessed near the Arctic region. [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. )[38], Group members share roles, structured around the dominant breeding pair. Ammoland America's oldest Second Amendment . Duplaix documented interaction with the Neotropical otter. [22], Its whiskers (vibrissae) are long and thick, enhancing their senses. I didnt even know it was possible to see river otters here, he said. There are 13 species of otters around the world, according to the Integrated Taxonomic Information System. Researchers emphasize that even between groups, conflict avoidance is generally adopted. [62] Furthermore, Defler observed associations between giant otters and the Amazon river dolphins, and suggested that dolphins may benefit by fish fleeing from the otters. [63] It occurs in freshwater rivers and streams, which generally flood seasonally. [1] Otters have recently re-established themselves on Prince Edward Island. The river otter ( Lutra canadensis) is the best swimmer of the weasel, or Mustelidae, family. River otters are found throughout most of North America from the Rio Grande to Canada and Alaska, except for in arid deserts and the treeless Arctic. A restoration program in western New York has in. [14][76][77], More recently, habitat destruction and degradation have become the principal dangers, and a further reduction of 50% is expected in giant otter numbers within the 20 years after 2004 (about the span of three generations of giant otters). ", "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. River otters, semiaquatic mammals that can grow up to 30 lbs. Life has been unfair to the giant river otter. [5] At Tierpark Hagenbeck in Germany, long-term pair bonding and individualized mate selection were seen, with copulation most frequently taking place in water. North American river otters, also called Canadian otters, have long, muscular, streamlined bodies with short legs and fully webbed feet bearing non-retractable claws. [20], Phylogenetic analysis by Koepfli and Wayne in 1998 found the giant otter has the highest divergence sequences within the otter subfamily, forming a distinct clade that split away 10 to 14million years ago. I spotted something brown and furry in the water, he said. [30][31] Mammals preyed upon by North American river otters are characteristically small or are a type species found in riparian zones. Two subspecies are currently recognized by the canonical Mammal Species of the World, P. b. brasiliensis and P. b. paraguensis. While many states experienced declines in river otter densities, distribution, and in some cases extirpation in the mid 1800's - 1900's, Georgia's [2] Typically, loggers first move into rainforest, clearing the vegetation along riverbanks. The species prefers freshwater rivers and streams, which are usually seasonally flooded, and may also take to freshwater lakes and springs. [78] Specific threats from human industry include unsustainable mahogany logging in parts of the giant otter range,[75] and concentrations of mercury in its diet of fish, a byproduct of gold mining. The muzzle appears broad. [50] Likewise, the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a preferred fish species for the North American river otter in other regions of Colorado. [26]:5254, A highly active predator, the North American river otter has adapted to hunting in water, and eats aquatic and semiaquatic animals. Ecotourism also presents challenges: while it raises money and awareness for the animals, by its nature it also increases human effect on the species, both through associated development and direct disturbances in the field. [87], Throughout its range, the giant otter interacts with indigenous groups, who often practice traditional hunting and fishing. Its distribution has been greatly reduced and is now discontinuous. [48], The giant otter is an apex predator, and its population status reflects the overall health of riverine ecosystems. The otter is a swift and agile swimmer, using its muscular tail to make sharp turns and steering with its neck and webbed feet. Otters did not show strong preference for individual habitat components within their home range. The three Guianas remain the last stronghold of giant otters in South America, with pristine giant otter habitat on some rivers and good giant otter densities overallstill, but for how long? 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. River otters are amazing swimmers. Young are born between April andMay and arrivesilky black, blind, toothless and totally helpless. An adult North American river otter can weigh between 5.0 and 14 kg (11.0 and 30.9 lb). A capacity for aggressive behavior should not be overstated with the giant otter. Although it holds the title of being the world's longest weasel, it's classified as endangered. The giant otter is an especially noisy animal, with a complex repertoire of vocalizations. The Maine Fish and Game Commissioner at the time, George J. Stoble, said that the critter, which Bolstridge trapped on the Fish River, was a world's record otter. [26], Male North American river otters disperse from such family groups more often than females. [28] Otters are known to take larger fish on land to eat, whereas smaller fish are consumed in the water. [53], Waterfowl, rails, and some colonial nesting birds are preyed upon by North American river otters in various areas. On average, male otters weigh 25lbs and are about 48in in length . The giant otter or giant river otter[4] (Pteronura brasiliensis) is a South American carnivorous mammal. [33] Every study done on the food habits of the North American river otter has identified varying fish species as being the primary component of its diet. Also, North American river otters have large molars used for crushing hard objects, such as the shells of molluscs. The tail is highly muscular and comprises up to 40 percent of the otter'stotal body length. [35] However, North American river otters, as foragers, will immediately take advantage of other prey when readily obtainable. River otters have long, stiff and highly sensitive facial whiskers that aid in locating and capturing prey. [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. [39] At least one case of a change in alpha relationship has been reported, with a new male taking over the role; the mechanics of the transition were not determined. Its dense fur coat is prized by trappers. [66] Giant otters may adopt preferred locations perennially, often on high ground. There is evidence that river otters' play activities strengthensocial bonds, improvehunting techniquesand scent markterritories. In a Facebook post on Friday evening, the zoo said a 13-year-old female North American river . The river otter ( Lontra canadensis) is a key bio-indicator of the health of our environment as they sit at the top of this water-based food chain. [48] Pups open their eyes in their fourth week, begin walking in their fifth, and are able to swim confidently between 12 and 14 weeks old. This thrilling Chilean trek is the world's southernmost hike. [61] Carter and Rosas have found captive adult animals consume around 10% of their body weight dailyabout 3 kilograms (7lb), in keeping with findings in the wild. [9] Other documented common names are American otter, Canada otter, Canadian otter, fish otter, land otter, nearctic river otter, and Prince of Wales otter. Use them in commercial designs under lifetime, perpetual & worldwide rights. [74], The animal faces a variety of critical threats. Photo by Andrea Westmoreland. [41], Delayed implantation distinguishes the species from the Eurasian otter, which does not do this. Name: Lontra weiri. As it dove, it didnt have the flattened tail like a beaver, which leaves otter as the only possibility, he explained. but averaging 15 to 19 lbs . [13] Later gene sequencing research on the mustelids, from 2004, places the divergence of the giant otter somewhat later, between five and 11million years ago; the corresponding phylogenetic tree locates the Lontra divergence first among otter genera, and Pteronura second, although divergence ranges overlap. The North American river otter is one of several carnivorans included in ongoing research of respiratory turbinates by Dr. Van Valkenburgh. Schenck et al., who undertook extensive fieldwork in Peru in the 1990s, suggest specific "no-go" zones where the species is most frequently observed, offset by observation towers and platforms to allow viewing. [73], The IUCN listed the giant otter as "endangered" in 1999; it had been considered "vulnerable" under all previous listings from 1982 when sufficient data had first become available. However, it is sensitive to pollution, and will disappear from tainted areas. River otters are adapted to a semi-aquatic lifestyle and can typically be seen "playing" in a stream, river, or alongside the banks of a waterway. [25], Giant otter muzzles are short and sloping and give the head a ball-shaped appearance. [78] Duplaix relates the story of an Arawak Indian who took two pups from their parents. They live in riparian zones, often in the same areas as beavers. Males are between 1.5 and 1.7m (4ft 11in and 5ft 7in)in length from head to tail and females between .mw-parser-output .frac{white-space:nowrap}.mw-parser-output .frac .num,.mw-parser-output .frac .den{font-size:80%;line-height:0;vertical-align:super}.mw-parser-output .frac .den{vertical-align:sub}.mw-parser-output .sr-only{border:0;clip:rect(0,0,0,0);height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;padding:0;position:absolute;width:1px}1 and 1.5m (3ft 3+12in and 4ft 11in). This otter is slightly paler ventrally, especially on the throat. 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