Are you a hunter? Gestation lasts about 60 days, and the young, called kits, are born almost 1 year after conception. That is why they are an excellent species to investigate pathogens and diseases.” It represents our guide to managing otter populations in Pennsylvania for the next 10 years. In some provinces and states, major otter re-introduction projects are underway with much success. River otters use a variety of denning sites that seem to be selected based on availability and convenience. North American River Otter (Lontra … Habitat. With the tail's strong, undulating movement, a river otter propels itself through the water as fast as 8 miles (13 kilometers) pe… Their short but thick, soft fur is brown to almost black except on the chin, throat, cheeks, chest, and occasionally the belly, where it is usually lighter, varying from brown to almost beige. Males weigh 22-45 kg and are 1.2-1.5 m in length. We are not announcing a reopening date at this time and will provide updates on our websites and social media. The reproductive biology of river otters and all other weasels is complex because of a characteristic known as delayed implantation. Otters are found from Newfoundland to Vancouver Island and north to Yukon Territory. Change style powered by CSL. Otters prefer shores of deep, clear water in lakes, rivers, marshes and ocean bays. 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. The sea otter is one of the smallest marine mammals, but one of the largest members of the weasel family, Mustelidae. Webbing is greatly reduced on the front feet. Our first goal for The River Otter Ecology Project was to convene a broadly-based group of experts in conservation, population biology, marine mammals, tracking and genomics to help guide our research. The otters typically capture prey in their mouths but occasionally use their thumbs and forepaws to grasp and manipulate prey. Research done in the early 1990s by the Department of Biology of Kochi University in Japan revealed some interesting facts about the genes of the Japanese River Otter. Range. Known throughout much of their range as 'river wolf', they are amongst South America's top carnivores. Water Consumption Animal Average Amount (Liters per day) Canada Goose0.24 Cat0.15 Mink0.10 Opossum0.30 Bald Eagle0.16 A river otter drinks liters in three days. On the website of her small nonprofit River Otter Ecology Project, the reports of sightings pour in, from anglers and dog-walkers and nature lovers and amazed suburbanites: Hey, I just saw an otter! Average life expectancy. Future genetic analysis of scat collected on all of the nearshore islands and the upper Cape will provide valuable information on connectivity between these populations. 100 Montrose, CO 81401 . The River Otter Ecology Project is a registered 501 (c)(3) EIN #45-4997526 non-profit organization dedicated to the welfare of river otters and our watershed. It represents our guide to managing otter populations in Pennsylvania for the next 10 years. Consumption of game fishes in comparison to nongame (rough) fishes is generally in proportion to the difficulty, or ease, with which they can be caught. Otter populations are confined to water courses, lakes, and wetlands, and therefore, population densities are lower than those of terrestrial species. The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. They devour fish and other prey, keeping ecosystems balanced. They usually remain together as a family group though the fall and into the winter months. These otters have brown-to-gray fur, and their undersides are a lighter, silvery shade. The tail is highly muscular and comprises up to 40 percent of the otter's total body length. It is both the world’s largest otter and largest member of the mustelid family, reaching up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length. Usual mating rituals commence with rough play such as running, swimming, diving, and chasing. The Giant otter, living in South America, and the largest of the otters in its total length, is the cousin of the sea and river otters in North America, Europe and Africa. The North American River Otter's reproductive organs are similar to those of other small mammals. Research based wildlife control information, River Otters | River Otter Overview | River Otter Damage Assessment | River Otter Damage Management | River Otter Resources | River Otter Acknowledgments | ICWDM | Wildlife Species Information, if (window.showTocToggle) { var tocShowText = "show"; var tocHideText = "hide"; showTocToggle(); }. North American river otters get their boundless energy from their very high metabolism, which also requires that they eat a great deal during the day. During the mid-80s, zoologists still regarded the European otter as a species on the verge of extinction. maximum weight of 45 kg. There is evidence that river otters' play activities strengthen social bonds, improve hunting techniques and scent mark territories. River otter poop also contains lots of DNA, from what the otters have eaten and from the otters themselves. It is both the world’s largest otter and largest member of the mustelid family, reaching up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length. It also serves as an information and education resource for They spend a significant portion of the day scent marking territory by urinating, defecating, scratching and rubbing their scent glands on rocks and trees. Today, accidental trappings in beaver traps constitute the most otter fatalities. They hunt singly or in pairs and although otters generally forage in water, they are equally at home on land, sometimes traveling between 10 and 18 miles (16 and 29 kilometers) in search of food. Two litters were reared with older siblings in the family group. Amphibious, muscular river otters swim gracefully and quickly underwater to catch prey, and they can run on land. It is the longest member of the weasel family, Mustelidae, a globally successful group of predators, reaching up to 1.7 metres (5.6 ft).Atypical of mustelids, the giant otter is a social species, with family groups typically supporting three to eight members. River otters are most common in North America, and they are different from their sea otter cousins that are found in Monterey Bay. An extremely adaptable animal, otters tolerate hot and cold climates, as well as high elevations and lowland coastal waters. River otters are almost invariably associated with water (fresh, brackish, and salt water), although they may travel overland for considerable distances. Males have been recorded to travel up to 10 miles (16 km) in 1 night. Answers: 3 on a question: River otters drink about 5 times as much water as a bald eagle drinks in a day. North American river otters are known for their playful swimming, but they are also an important species for helping scientists understand the health of river … River Otter Habitats - Biology bibliographies - in Harvard style . River otters exhibit a variety of vocalizations, ranging from whistles and buzzes to twitters, staccato chuckles, chirps and growls. 1999) and released 346 river otter from 1994 to 1996 in central Illinois (Fig. Not only are we seeing the return of the River otter to many areas, but also that it is possible for humans and otters, to co-exist in the same areas. They occur at much higher densities in regions of the Great Lakes, in brackish marshes and inlets, and in other coastal habitats than farther inland. Once they implant, fetal growth lasts 60 to 65 days until the kits are born, usually in spring (March through May) in most areas. When Andrew Rutter took a full-time wildlife ecologist position at the Lake County Forest Preserves in 2017, he expected his work studying river otter ecology would come to an end. The Japanese river otter ... Ecology and biology Habits. Females have 4 mammae on the upper chest and are slightly smaller than males. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also called the Canadian otter, is the most abundant species of otter.They are found throughout most of North America – from the Rio Grande in Northern Mexico to Canada and Alaska. 100 Montrose, CO 81401 Fertilization is internal with the otters meaning the male releases the sperm inside the female. 1999). Popular AMA APA ... R., O'Brien, M. and Evans, H., 2010. They are perfectly happy to hunt in the ocean,” says Isadore. When a female otter is in her most fertile state it is referred to as estrus. California sea otter: Enhydra lutris nereis Alaskan sea otter: Enhydra lutris kenyoni Russian sea otter: Enhydra lutris lutris: Body size. Their webbed feet, streamlined bodies, and long, tapered tails enable them to move through water with agility, grace, and speed. The pelage(covering, or coat, of a mammal, whether of wool, fur, or hair) is brown or reddis… The otters typically capture prey in their mouths but occasionally use their thumbs and forepaws to grasp and manipulate prey. As a public health precaution due to COVID-19, all Smithsonian museums will temporarily close. Journal. Increases in the range and numbers of river otters in response to the return of beaver has been dramatic, particularly in the southeastern United States. different regions. At this point, they eat solid food but are not completely weaned for another month or two. Estrus can last anywhere from 20-56 days. River otters have been blamed for decimating game fish populations and are seen as a pest to eradicate by many game fishermen. Native to both Newfoundland and Labrador. The loss of ponds and other wetland habitat that resulted from the extirpation of beaver in the late 1800s may have adversely affected continental populations of river otters more than any other factor. SEA OTTER BIOLOGY. Seasonally, they may travel distances of 50 to 60 miles (80 to 96 km) along streams or lake shores, and their home ranges may be as large as 60 square miles (155 km2). 2). Otter are carnivores, feeding on fish, crayfish, frogs, insects, small mammals, mollusks, and blue crabs. Because they are at the top of their food chain, they have few predators. Adirondack Mammals. The Otter Project > about sea otters > biology of the southern sea otter biology of the southern sea otter . In the southern portion of the range the dates of birth occur earlier, mostly in January and February, implying implantation in November and December. They remain as a family unit for seven to eight months or until the birth of a new litter. For years, river otters have been hunted for their fur, and their pelts are still an important source of income for many people in Canada. Some studies indicate that river otters pair for only a few months during the breeding season and have no further strong bonds. The male otter is generally chased away until the young are weaned and old enough to leave the riverbank, at which time they may return and help raise the pups. However, water pollution, uncontrolled trapping and severe habitat loss have reduced the number of river otters. Their precolonial range apparently included all of North America except the arid Southwest and the northernmost portions of Alaska and Canada. How much water can a river otter drink in three days? Although river otters weren’t seen and no tracks were found due to the terrain of the area, the evidence is solid. Upon learning there was a need for volunteers with River Otter Ecology Project, I saw a chance to learn about the North American River Otter; not only to help chart the return of another otter species, but also, hopefully, help to prevent a recurrence of what I had observed all those years ago. State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry. Pups grow rapidly and emerge from the den at about 2 months of age. and are the smallest marine mammal in North America. Their small heads widen to long necks and shoulders, and they have flattened, well-muscled tails. These otters are frequently observed playing and sliding together. River otters (Lutra canadensis, Fig. North American river otters are known for their playful swimming, but they are also an important species for helping scientists understand the health of river systems. Numerous species and varieties of fresh and anadromous fishes are eaten, but shell-fish, crayfish, amphibians, and reptiles are also frequently eaten, as are several species of crabs in coastal marshes. River otters usually mate in the months of March and April. Lutra canadensis Status . Sexual maturity in young is believed to occur at about 2 years of age in females, but later in males. River otters leave scent marks on vegetation within their home range. The oldest living river otter on record was 27 years old. Recent releases totaling more than 1,000 otters have been made in Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and West Virginia in efforts to reestablish local populations. Science of The Total Environment, 408(3), pp.537-542 . We receive no government funding, and depend solely on financial support from our friends. You can be an incredible ally for conservation! Hollow logs, rock crevices, nutria houses, and abandoned beaver lodges and bank dens are used. By comparing the Mitochondrial Cytochrome b Gene of a mummified Japanese river otter corpse with Eurasian otters from Latvia and China, it was proven that t… General Biology, Reproduction, and Behavior, Best Practices for Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators. Captured prey are brought to the surface for consumption, with the abdomen used as a table. This work is supported by New Technologies for Agriculture Extension grant no. Otters (both sea and river otters) play a notable role in the animal food chain. The North American river otter is the most abundant otter species, but surprisingly little is known about its life in the wild. 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. Sea otters, Enhydra lutris (Linnaeus, 1758), are the largest member of the Family Mustelidae (70 species of river otters, skunks, weasels, badgers, etc.) Their sex can be readily distinguished by the presence of a baculum (penile bone). Female adults measure about 44 inches (112 cm) and weigh 19 pounds (8.6 kg). Regionally extinct throughout the Midwest and heavily populated areas in the east, several states have recently begun reintroduction programs. The diet of the river otter throughout its range is primarily fish. The reproductive biology of river otters, as in other Mustelids, is unusual in that they exhibit delayed implantation. Food. Males weigh 22-45 kg and are 1.2-1.5 m in length. Like other carnivores, their teeth are well adapted for grinding and crushing. Adult sea otters standard length is on average 4 ft. 3 in. Females are slightly smaller, weighing 14-33 kg and measuring 1-1.4m in length. Thus, river otters in this region appear to be making saltwater crossings of a few miles. Otters are playful creatures, frequently seen sliding down riverbanks or burrowing through snow. otter biology and history ^ Otters were once plentiful across most of North America but due to trapping pressure in the late 1800’s and early 20th century, these numbers dwindled. Find resources to engage learners in grades preK-12 with science, the natural world, wildlife and conservation. In colder climates, otters frequent rapids and waterfall areas that remain ice-free. Socially, the basic group is the female and her offspring. Even when our gates are closed, we are still here, working as always to save species. It is encouraging to note that with these conservation programs, regulations on trapping and the improvement of water quality, the river otters are finally making a comeback in certain wetland areas. Protect local waterways by using fewer pesticides when caring for your garden or lawn. The river otter food chain includes many types of fish, mollusks, crustaceans, aquatic plants and roots, eggs, and some small mammals and birds. It makes its home in a burrow near the water's edge, and can thrive in river, lake, swamp, or estuary ecosystems. While young otters swim naturally, the mother must coax them into the water for their first swim. 2 Four appendices reporting on short investigations into matters related to the review: Ecology of the European Otter 5 Paul Glendell/English Nature Although there is a lot of information available about the biology and distribution of the otter,a great deal An adult North American river otter can weigh between 5.0 and 14 kg (11.0 and 30.9 lb). Prior to our Otter Spotter community science effort beginning in 2012, river otters were not known to inhabit the SF Bay Area. We hope you will join us in this important work. Organize or attend a stream, river, lake or other waterway cleanup in your area to preserve aquatic habitats for local species. While river otters tend to live alone or in pairs, they often socialize in groups and are known for their playful behavior. Females are roughly one-third the size of males. males: 10 to 15 years; females: 15 to 20 years: Vocal behavior. In South Carolina, they are common along waterways of the coastal plain. They have long, streamlined bodies, short legs, and a robust, tapered tail, all of which are well adapted to their mostly aquatic habitat. North American river otters are likely the most numerous of the otter species. The Giant River Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis), often referred to as the river wolf, is a species in the Mustelid (weasel) family that is endemic to South America. Society for Conservation Biology North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis): A Technical Conservation Assessment Prepared for the USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region, Species Conservation Project September 2, 2006 Steve Boyle BIO-Logic Environmental 635 East Main Ste. “Everything on the landscape ends up in the water, and that is where otters live and eat. Washington, DC 20013. River Otter. The river otter Lontra canadensis is an elusive species that can serve an important role in aquatic ecosystems as a top predator of fish and crayfish. Density & Home Range Size. River otters eat mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, insects and some small mammals. A North American river otter's home range can be as large as 30 square miles (78 square kilometers), but a typical territory is 3 to 15 square miles (4.8 to 24 square kilometers). At the center of the range in California, sea otters spend 40-50% of each 24-hr period foraging, although in more recently occupied areas at the edge of the range they may feed as little as 20% of the time. River otters have long, stiff and highly sensitive facial whiskers that aid in locating and capturing prey. 1; Bluett et al. Life history and biology of otters Recognizing good otter habitat Interpreting sign and assessing otter damage Trapping methods for wildlife damage management Techniques for preparing pelts for personal use or sale Should you need further help, a Missouri Department of Conservation wildlife damage biologist can assist you on site with your nuisance otter problems. Adult otter can be over 50 inches long and weigh up to 25 lbs. The Basics. With a streamlined body and webbed feet, this otter is a great swi… Biology of the North American river otter Adult river otters weigh between 15 and 30 pounds and measure 84.34 cm (2.8 feet) to 137.16 cm (4.5 feet).1,2 Otters have adapted to their aquatic environment by de-veloping dense fur, large lungs, and webbed hind feet. Distribution. At the Smithsonian's National Zoo, they eat a prepared meat diet and several types of fish. About River Otter Ecology Project. The tail comprises less than a third of the body length. Following breeding and fertilization in spring, eggs (blastocysts) exist in a free-floating state until the following winter or early spring. The playful North American river otter is equally at home in the water and on land. Sea otters feed on benthic invertebrates and typically dive to the bottom to forage, although they may also pull prey off emergent rocks, kelp stipes or kelp canopy. 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. 2 3 Boyle, S. (2006, September 2). River otters belong to the weasel family. They will also frequent unused or abandoned human structures or shelters. The ♀ gave birth to nine litters, with 14.6.1 pups born, 6.4 (48%) of which survived to > 1 year old. and are the smallest marine mammal in North America. Change style powered by CSL. Claiming a territory about ten miles in diameter, it marked the area with its droppings about one to three miles apart and sets up three or four nests under rocks or inside bushes. River otters are top predators in North American wetland systems. The Giant River Otter only lives in three river systems: the Amazon, Orinoco and La Plata. RIVER OTTER NETWORK: We are interested in describing the distribution and demography of otters on the coasts, wetlands and watersheds in Humboldt, Del Norte and adjacent counties. They inhabit lakes, rivers, streams, bays, estuaries, and associated riparian habitats. While river otters tend to live alone or in pairs, they often socialize in groups and are known for their playful behavior. The reproductive biology of river otters and all other weasels is complex because of a characteristic known as delayed implantation. However, the studies done in Kochi University revealed something different. The Giant River Otter only lives in three river systems: the Amazon, Orinoco and La Plata. The giant otter or giant river otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) is a South American carnivorous mammal. Tools, commonly rocks, may be used by some individuals to break into hard-shelled prey, especially marine snails.
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