North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis)
North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis)
The North American River Otter, Lontra canadensis, is a semiaquatic mammal that is unique to North America along its waterways and coasts; it is also known as the northern river otter or common otter. Protected by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur, the mammal is versatile in both the water and on land. A burrow with many tunnel openings is constructed close to the water’s edge, where female otters give birth. Fish is a favored food among the species, but they will also eat some amphibians (such as salamanders and frogs), fresh water clams, mussels, snails, small turtles, and crayfish.
The North American River Otter has a body length in the range of 25.6”-41.3” (65-105 cm) and total weight of 11-31 lb (5-14 kg). North American River Otters have a shoulder height between 10.6”-16.5” (27-42 cm), body width of 6.7”-10.2” (17-26 cm), and tail length of 11.8”-18.9” (30-48 cm). The typical lifespan of the North American River Otter is between 8-27 years.
The North American River Otter, Lontra canadensis, is a semiaquatic mammal that is unique to North America along its waterways and coasts; it is also known as the northern river otter or common otter. Protected by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur, the mammal is versatile in both the water and on land. A burrow with many tunnel openings is constructed close to the water’s edge, where female otters give birth. Fish is a favored food among the species, but they will also eat some amphibians (such as salamanders and frogs), fresh water clams, mussels, snails, small turtles, and crayfish.
The North American River Otter has a body length in the range of 25.6”-41.3” (65-105 cm) and total weight of 11-31 lb (5-14 kg). North American River Otters have a shoulder height between 10.6”-16.5” (27-42 cm), body width of 6.7”-10.2” (17-26 cm), and tail length of 11.8”-18.9” (30-48 cm). The typical lifespan of the North American River Otter is between 8-27 years.