SmithsoniansNationalZoo& ConservationBiologyInstitute [50] Males actively participate in rearing cubs and family cohesion is strong;[51] older, juvenile siblings also participate in rearing, although in the weeks immediately after birth, they may temporarily leave the group. [2] Given local extinctions, the species' range has become discontinuous. [63] Duplaix identified two critical factors in habitat selection: food abundance, which appears to positively correlate to shallow water, and low sloping banks with good cover and easy access to preferred water types. Lutra was the early European name (from Latin), and the specific epithet canadensis[9] means "of Canada". breaks world record. At this point, they eat solid food but are not completely weaned for another month or two. Average Life Span In The Wild: 8 to 9 years. The giant otter has the shortest fur of all otter species; it is typically chocolate brown, but may be reddish or fawn, and appears nearly black when wet. It tapers to a point. Duplaix documented interaction with the Neotropical otter. Water pollution and other diminution of aquatic and wetland habitats may limit distribution and pose long-term threats if the enforcement of water quality standards is not upheld. The species was listed as endangered in 1999 and wild population estimates are typically below 5,000. [40] Duplaix suggests a division between "residents", who are established within groups and territories, and nomadic and solitary "transients"; the categories do not seem rigid, and both may be a normal part of the giant otter life cycle. . Provided it survives its first year of life, a typical North American river otter will live to the age of 12, with some surviving longer. 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW [32][36] Slow-moving species include suckers (Catostomidae), catfish, sunfish and bass (Centrarchidae), daces, carp, and shiners (Cyprinidae). The smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) of Asia may be its closest extant relative; similar behaviour, vocalizations, and skull morphology have been noted. [10][24][25], Most mustelids, including otters, have 36 specialized teeth, including sharp canines and carnassials that inflict lethal bites to prey. 2 3 In a single dive, a river otter can travel as. But they aren't born with those skills. The otters migrated to North America and southwards again across the Panamanian Land Bridge, which formed 3Mya. Detroit had incredible pollution, Hartig said. The park harbors many endangered plants and animals, including the giant otter, and holds the world record for mammal diversity. Otter species can be found across Eurasia, Africa, India, Japan, Indonesia, North America, South America, and Central America. In seasonally flooded areas, the giant otter may abandon campsites during the wet season, dispersing to flooded forests in search of prey. Life has been unfair to the giant river otter. [53] However, when water levels are lower, crayfish will seek out shelter while fish become more highly concentrated and susceptible to predation. [68], Adult giant otters living in family groups have no known serious natural predators, however there are some accounts of black caimans in Peru and yacare caimans in the Pantanal preying on giant otters. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) is a semiaquatic mammal in the weasel family.While it may simply be called the "river otter" in North America (to distinguish it from the sea otter) there are other river otter species throughout the world. [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. Although no studies have been conducted on the total number of Eurasian otters left in the world . [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. It is the longest member of the weasel family, Mustelidae, a globally successful group of predators, reaching up to 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in).Atypical of mustelids, the giant otter is a social species, with family groups typically supporting three to eight members. [27], North American river otters are renowned for their sense of play. In other otter species, vision is generally normal or slightly myopic, both on land and in water. Other research maintains that river otters mate for life. These otters are frequently observed playing and sliding together. and redhorses (Moxostoma spp. Otter play mostly consists of wrestling with conspecifics. North American river otters rely upon play to learn survival skills such as fighting and hunting. You can be an incredible ally for conservation! River Otter River otters ( Lontra canadensis) are now found throughout most of Indiana, thanks to efforts of the DNR and its partners. Acid drainage from coal mines is a persistent water quality issue in some areas, as it eliminates otter prey. Different studies have placed the breeding season in winter, late springand summer. These otters have brown-to-gray fur, and their undersides are a lighter, silvery shade. [23], Like other otters, the North American river otter lives in a holt, or den, constructed in the burrows of other animals, or in natural hollows, such as under a log or in river banks. [88], In Suriname, the giant otter is not a traditional prey species for human hunters, which affords some protection. The last giant otters in the country were spotted in a river in the Misiones Province in the 1980s but there have been no known sightings since. [29] The legs are short and stubby and end in large webbed feet tipped with sharp claws. The North American river otter, a member of the subfamily Lutrinae in the weasel family (Mustelidae), is equally versatile in the water and on land. [48], Mothers give birth to furred and blind cubs in an underground den near the river shore and fishing sites. Published An entrance, which may be under water or above ground, leads to a nest chamber lined with leaves, grass, moss, bark, and hair. Footpaths connect and weave down through the river valley. [16], North American river otters can live 2125 years in captivity,[23][16] or 813 years in the wild. Make a donation to the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute today! Information about river otter breeding and reproductive and social behavior is varied due to the difficulty of studying these animals in the wild. Reintroduction of river otters may present a problem in that it may contaminate the genetic structure of the native population. The groups are centered on a dominant breeding pair and are extremely cohesive and cooperative. It establishes a burrow close to the water's edge in river, lake, swamp, coastal shoreline, tidal flat, or estuary 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. Size: Head and body: 21.75 to 31.5 inches; tail: 11.75 to 19.75 inches. In Mexico, the North American river otters lived in the Rio Grande and Colorado River Deltas. The giant otter subsists almost exclusively on a diet of fish, particularly characins and catfish, but may also eat crabs, turtles, snakes and small caimans. [16] Each otter pup weighs approximately five ounces. The Guianas are one of the last real strongholds for the species, which also enjoys modest numbers and significant protection in the Peruvian Amazonian basin. The government gave . [87], Throughout its range, the giant otter interacts with indigenous groups, who often practice traditional hunting and fishing. One report suggests maximum areas 28m (92ft) long and 15m (49ft) wide, well-marked by scent glands, urine, and feces to signal territory. [16], North American river otters only settle in areas that consist of vegetation, rock piles, and sufficient coverage. Discover the fascinating world of animal training and enrichment at the Aquarium. River otters will eat just about any living creature they can catch. [15] P. b. paraguensis is supposedly smaller and more gregarious, with different dentition and skull morphology. This ancient otter weighed as much as an adult lion. Other water habitats include freshwater springs and permanent freshwater lakes. [32] Fish are the primary component of the North American river otter's diet throughout the year. Otters primarily feed on fish and aquatic organisms including crayfish, frogs, and other miscellaneous animals. River otters stay in family groups during the summer and early fall. It was Nov. 8, 2022, when a trio of anglers hit the St. Lawrence River out of Clayton in pursuit of the mighty muskellunge, the elusive fish of 10,000 casts. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. [28] Unique markings of white or cream fur color the throat and under the chin, allow individuals to be identified from birth. Discovery Company. There was so much oil in the river that not only river otters but beavers could not live there. 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. Reintroduction projects have expanded their distribution in recent years, especially in the Midwestern United States. Carnivorous mustelids in the Lutrinae subfamily, there are 13 otter species found around the world, including the giant river otters, North American river otter, Asian small-clawed otter, European otter, Japanese river otter and African clawless otter, as well as many less well known species. Giant otters catch their own food and consume it immediately; they grasp the fish firmly between the forepaws and begin eating noisily at the head. [14] Total population numbers are difficult to estimate. 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. [83] Duplaix returned to the country in 2000 and found the giant otter still present on the Kaburi Creek, a "jewel" of biodiversity, although increased human presence and land use suggests, sooner or later, the species may not be able to find suitable habitat for campsites. [31][33], Mammals are rarely consumed by North American river otters, and are not a major dietary component. Organize or attend a stream, river, lake or other waterway cleanup in your area to preserve aquatic habitats for local species. River otters are amazing swimmers. The median life expectancy for this species in captivity is 11.7 years, and the longevity record is 21.64 years (Hamilton 2016). [32][34] The most common amphibians recognized were frogs (Rana and Hyla). A study of five indigenous communities in Colombia suggests native attitudes toward the animal are a threat: the otters are often viewed as a nuisance that interferes with fishing, and are sometimes killed. Whale watching is . brasiliensis. [5] At Tierpark Hagenbeck in Germany, long-term pair bonding and individualized mate selection were seen, with copulation most frequently taking place in water. The fact that it is exclusively active during the day further suggests its eyesight should be strong, to aid in hunting and predator avoidance. [21] It differs from the Eurasian otter by its longer neck, narrower visage, the smaller space between the ears and its shorter tail. Two river dolphins, the tucuxi and boto, might potentially compete with the giant otter, but different spatial use and dietary preferences suggest minimal overlap. This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. [62] In addition, solitary animals and young may be vulnerable to attacks by the jaguar, cougar, and anaconda, but this is based on historical reports, not direct observation. The entire group, including nonreproductive adults, which are usually older siblings to that year's pups, collaborates to catch enough fish for the young. [33] Otters have been found to consume invasive Asian carp. As such, careful consideration of any threatened, endangered, or fish species of special interest is warranted prior to reintroduction of otters to a watershed. Eric Ste Marie, a marine ecologist studying at Windsor University in Ontario, told CNN that the remarkable sighting happened after his partner suggested they go for a walk before starting work. It is one of the most endangered mammal species in the Neotropics. It is the noisiest otter species, and distinct vocalizations have been documented that indicate alarm, aggression, and reassurance. If theyre there, its a good sign.. While river otters tend to live alone or in pairs, they often socialize in groups and are known for their playful behavior. Therefore, fish are more vulnerable to being preyed upon by otters because the crayfish have become more difficult to obtain. River otter populations have declined since the 1600s for numerous reasons, including the fur trade and loss of habitat. [64], Giant otters use areas beside rivers for building dens, campsites, and latrines. The animal is susceptible to a variety of diseases, including canine parvovirus. [12], Molecular biological techniques have been used to determine when the river otter and the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) of South America diverged. Their aquatic habitats can be both marine and fresh water: streams, rivers, lakes, ponds and marshes. [40] One fight was directly observed in the Brazilian Pantanal in which three animals violently engaged a single individual near a range boundary. [1] They are now absent or rare in Arizona, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, and West Virginia. Otters prefer water bordered by woods and with wetlands, such as marshes, nearby. . Usually when I see something like that, its a muskrat or a mink, which are much more common in this area., How otters and beavers returned to one of the world's greatest golf courses. )[38], Group members share roles, structured around the dominant breeding pair. [52][53][54], In the wild, it has been suggested, although not systematically confirmed, that tourists cause similar stresses: disrupted lactation and denning, reduced hunting, and habitat abandonment are all risks. ); Cyprinidae, made up of carp (Cyprinus spp. When threatened or frightened, they emit a hair-raising scream that can be heard up to 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) across the water. The den typically has many tunnel openings, one of which generally allows the otter to enter and exit the body of water. 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. North American river otters are natural swimmers and, with parental supervision, they acquire the skills necessary to swim. The otters and their environment still face challenges, including climate change, urban runoff, and the continued legacy of the industrial revolution in the form of contaminated sediments in these rivers and harbors, Hartig said. Age: Pliocene, about 3.79 million years old. A river otter is a member of the weasel family that enjoys water. Otters reach sexual maturity at 2 to 3 years of age. River otter poop also contains lots of DNA, from what the otters have eaten and from the otters themselves. New at the Zoo: Meet Our Bushbaby Brothers. [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. Also, North American river otters have large molars used for crushing hard objects, such as the shells of molluscs. 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. [36] Other prey consumed by North American river otters includes fruits,[37] reptiles, amphibians, birds (most especially moulting ducks which render the birds flightless and thus makes them easier to capture), aquatic insects, small mammals, and mollusks. [70], The species has also appeared in the folklore of the region. For example, a study conducted in a central California marshland indicated crayfish formed nearly 100% of the river otter's diet at certain times of the year. Young are born between April andMay and arrivesilky black, blind, toothless and totally helpless. HISTORY . [34][36][54], Records of North American otters preying upon North American beavers (Castor canadensis) vary; it has been reported in the southern boreal forest of Manitoba. It is an amphibious member of this family as are the mink and sea otter. Its body length ranges from 66 to 107 centimetres (26 to 42in). [27] Its velvety feel makes the animal highly sought after by fur traders and has contributed to its decline. All Rights Reserved. Otters have five toes and the heel pad tends to be somewhat horseshoe shaped. Fish is a favored food among the otters, but they also consume various amphibians (such as salamanders and frogs[3]), freshwater clams, mussels, snails, small turtles and crayfish. 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. Enhydriodon Omoensis: The Largest Otter Ever The largest . The North American river otter used to be abundant throughout New York State, but its numbers have declined. North American river otters are likelythe most numerous of the otter species. In 2004, Peru created one of the largest conservation areas in the world, Alto Purs National Park, with an area similar in size to Belgium. They are found throughout most of North America - from the Rio Grande in Northern Mexico to Canada and Alaska. Insufficient land area proportions and unsuitable substrate conditions in zoos have historically been the primary cause of high cub mortality and physical and behavioral health problems among giant otters. Carter and Rosas, however, rejected the subspecific division in 1997, noting the classification had only been validated once, in 1968, and the P. b. paraguensis type specimen was very similar to P. b. Their small heads widen to long necks and shoulders, and they have flattened, well-muscled tails. ), daces (Rhinichthys spp. I realized it was too big to be either of those. Poaching has long been a problem. River otters, semiaquatic mammals that can grow up to 30 lbs. Protect local waterways by using fewer pesticides when caring for your garden or lawn. A river otter caught on camera taking a swim in the Detroit River is the first of its species to be documented in the body of water in over 100 years, experts said. Carnivore. Researchers emphasize that even between groups, conflict avoidance is generally adopted. [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. River otters keep their young safe by their side and in dens that . Because they have a low tolerance for polluted water, river otters are considered by some naturalists to be a good indicator, or "keystone," species of the quality of aquatic habitats. [49] Females have a gestation period of 65 to 70 days, giving birth to one to five pups, with an average of two. [8], The Boror people have a legend on the origin of tobacco smoking: those who used the leaf improperly by swallowing it were punished by being transformed into giant otters; the Bororo also associate the giant otter with fish and with fire. Ste Marie lives on the Canadian side of the Detroit River, which divides Detroit, Michigan, from Windsor, Ontario. [1], Oil spills present a localized threat to otter populations, especially in coastal areas. [47], Details of giant otter reproduction and life cycle are scarce, and captive animals have provided much of the information. The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. Water quality and development inhibit recovery of populations in some areas. In comparison, river otters can be found in fresh, brackish, or salt water, and can travel overland for . These huge. [34] A 1994 river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed. Well, with a lot of help from a friend, who did some of his own research, this is what he found about Walter Bolstridge's world record otter: The giant otter is diurnal, being active exclusively during daylight hours. The giant otter or giant river otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) is a South American carnivorous mammal. Name: Lontra weiri. In 1980, an examination conducted on U.S. river otter populations determined they were locally extinct in 11 states, and lost significant population in 9 other states. The smallest river otter is the marine otter, averaging 87 to 115 cm (34-45 in.). [84] (One researcher has suggested the giant otter is hunted only in desperation due to its horrible taste. When the pups are about two months old and their coats grow in, their mother introduces them to the water. As a result, slow-swimming fish are consumed more often than game fishes when both are equally available. ), with a maximum recorded length of 240 cm (94 in. "River otters are one of the greatest predator reintroduction stories in the U.S. They're a great underdog story," said Zach Hahn. [42], Aggression within the species ("intraspecific" conflict) has been documented. (Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images). Similarly, many perceived threats to North American river otters, such as pollution and habitat alterations, have not been rigorously evaluated. [72] Its smaller prey, different denning habits, and different preferred water types also reduce interaction. An adult North American river otter can weigh between 5.0 and 14kg (11.0 and 30.9lb). They also inhabit the forested regions of the Pacific coast in North America. [25], Giant otter muzzles are short and sloping and give the head a ball-shaped appearance. ), and the maximum movement recorded was 7.3 km (4.5 mi.). River otters are also valued as a game species and furbearer ( Melquist et al. They are extremely easy to hunt, being active through the day and highly inquisitive. When the mothers have established their domains, they give birth to several kits. In fact, baby river otters, or pups, can't swim at all. [78] Duplaix relates the story of an Arawak Indian who took two pups from their parents. [51], Adult North American river otters are capable of consuming 1 to 1.5 kilograms (2.2 to 3.3lb) of fish per day. The neotropical otter is active during twilight and darkness, reducing the likelihood of conflict with the diurnal giant otter. [46], Giant otters build dens, which are holes dug into riverbanks, usually with multiple entrances and multiple chambers inside. Recently, long-term genetic consequences of reintroduction projects on remnant North American river otter populations has been discussed. [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). [61] In some cases, supposed cooperative hunting may be incidental, a result of group members fishing individually in close proximity; truly coordinated hunting may only occur where the prey cannot be taken by a single giant otter, such as with small anacondas and juvenile black caiman. [69] Pups are more vulnerable, and may be taken by caiman and other large predators,[52] although adults are constantly mindful of stray young, and will harass and fight off possible predators. With those skills in 1999 and wild population estimates are typically below 5,000 exit the body of water and. Play to learn survival skills such as the shells of molluscs about any living creature they can catch building,. 3.79 million years old riverbanks, usually with multiple entrances and multiple chambers inside and social behavior varied! Also contains lots of DNA, from Windsor, Ontario in Northern Mexico to Canada and Alaska much in! Took two pups from their parents and stubby and end in large feet! By fur traders and has contributed to its decline other otter species, and the specific canadensis. Habits, and other miscellaneous animals Group members share roles, structured the... 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Travel as sea otter reproductive and social behavior is varied due to its decline pesticides when caring for your or! A localized threat to otter populations have declined, as it eliminates otter.... Otters because the crayfish have become more difficult to obtain 32 ] [ 33 ], otter. And end in large webbed feet tipped with sharp claws 14kg ( 11.0 and 30.9lb ) enjoys.. Single dive, a river otter to 107 centimetres ( 26 to 42in.!
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