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River otters are aquatic predators that typically eat small fish, crayfish and other small aquatic animals.
photo: Don Cohen
Characteristics: This playful, aquatic mammal is quite secretive and rarely seen by humans. River otters are typically 3-4 ft long and weigh 11-23 lbs. Adept swimmers, otters have dense, waterproof hair and webbed feet. Otters are nearsighted, which may improve underwater vision
Diet: River otters are aquatic predators that typically eat small fish, crayfish and other small aquatic animals.
Reproduction:Female otters give birth to a litter of 2-3 pups that are born with a full coat of fur. Pups are weaned after 3 months but stay with their mothers for up to a year.
Environmental Connections: American river otters were once hunted relentlessly for their pelts. Western North Carolina saw the near extinction of river otters by the 1930’s. Recent conservation efforts include reintroduction programs and yearly monitoring of populations.
River otters have been more successful in coastal areas, most likely due to an abundant food supply and remote areas inaccessible to trappers.
Typically inhabiting wetland and aquatic habitats, American river otters are susceptible to water pollution, habitat destruction and wetland drainage.
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N.C. Zoo is a member institution of AZA and an agency of the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, William G. Ross Jr. Secretary; Michael F. Easley, Governor. A part of the North Carolina Government portal.
The Zoo is closed Christmas day and during severe weather. Call our information line at: 1-800-488-0444.
