North American River Otters
North American River Otters are mammals that live semi-aquatically. River otters are typically a brown color, with a lighter brown on their face and bellies. Their fur is thick and is mainly used as protection against cold waters. They're small animals, with the largest among them, typically males, growing up to 30 pounds. In the Midwest, they can be found in Kentucky, Illinois, Ohio, Kansas, and Nebraska.
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North American River Otters occupy a large habitat. They can be found in Canada, Mexico and in the United States. They typically thrive in whatever habitat they occupy, as water temperatures do not affect them, whether it be hot or cold waters. Their life cycles can vary, but they can typically live from 9 to 21 years of age, (21 years is typically reserved for those otters that are in captivity.) River otters eat frequently, and are carnivores. They eat mostly aquatic wildlife, such as: fish, frogs, and occasionally some small land animals, such as rabbits and muskrats.
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North American River Otters have various forms of communication. They are known to whistle, yelp, growl, and even scream. Being semi-aquatic, North American River Otters love to swim.
Reproduction is an important part of an otter's life. Breeding occurs in early spring, and at two months the pups emerge from their dens to greet the world. They typically become independent at five or six months but remain in a family-group up to seven or eight months.
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North American River Otters were hunted extensively for their fur in the 18th and 19th centuries. Unfortunately, they are still hunted in some places. Their preservation is important for their survival and for future generations. Fortunately, their populations are stable and common thanks to the reintroduction of the species.
Being predators, North American River Otters are important for stabilizing the ecosystems in which they reside. River otters are also important to the society in which they live, as their "riparian zones" help to contribute to the clean water that is so important to the Homo Sapiens population.
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Works Cited:
“North American River Otter.” National Wildlife Federation, www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Mammals/north-american-river-otter.
“North American River Otter.” National Wildlife Federation, www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Mammals/north-american-river-otter.
Krauss, Jake. “An Otter Success.” NEEF, www.neefusa.org/nature/plants-and-animals/otter-success.