world record river otterworld record river otter

In warmer times, you may also see otters sliding down a riverbank. [30] North American river otters generally feed on prey that is in larger supply and easier to catch. River otters are also valued as a game species and furbearer ( Melquist et al. [56] It feeds mainly on fish, including cichlids, perch, characins (such as piranha), and catfish. [78] A number of restrictions on land use and human intrusion are required to properly maintain wild populations. In captivity, this may increase to 17, with an unconfirmed record of 19. [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. [52], Studies of giant otters in captivity have given indications about the environment necessary to both maintain a physically and behaviorally healthy population and allow successful cub-rearing. [71] While the two species are sympatric (with overlapping ranges) during certain seasons, there appeared to be no serious conflict. Theyremain as a family unit for seven to eight months or until the birth of a new litter. While revealing of the affection held for the animals, the seizure was a profound blow to the breeding pair, which went on to lose their territory to competitors. . River otters will achieve maturity between the ages of two and three, while female sea otters mature between ages three and five, and males even later between ages five and seven. This dilemma prevents, and consequently inhibits, recolonization or growth of North American river otter populations. [28] Researchers emphasize that even between groups, conflict avoidance is generally adopted. There was so much oil in the river that not only river otters but beavers could not live there. SANDWICH, ENGLAND - JULY 20: An aerial view of the par 4, eighth hole looking back to the tee from the green as the sun rises at the host venue for the 2021 Open Championship at The Royal St. George's Golf Club on July 20, 2020 in Sandwich, England. [9] The mammal was identified as a species of otter and has a variety of common names, including North American river otter, northern river otter, common otter and, simply, river otter. They will feed on fish, invertebrates, frogs, clams, crayfish, and small mammals or birds. 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. Appearance: Dark shiny brown fur. A wavering scream may be used in bluff charges against intruders, while a low growl is used for aggressive warning. [28] Otters are known to take larger fish on land to eat, whereas smaller fish are consumed in the water. [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. It tapers to a point. Schoolchildren, however, had a more positive impression of the animal. Fossil Facts. [23], North American river otters consume an extensive assortment of fish species ranging in size from 2 to 50 centimeters (0.79 to 19.69in) that impart sufficient caloric intake for a minute amount of energy expenditure. While river otters tend to live alone or in pairs, they often socialize in groups and are known for their playful behavior. There is evidence that river otters' play activities strengthensocial bonds, improvehunting techniquesand scent markterritories. [1], During the 1970s, improvements in natural resource management techniques emerged, along with increased concerns about North American river otter population declines in North America. Weights are between 26 and 32kg (57 and 71lb) for males and 22 and 26kg (49 and 57lb) for females. [91] A Maxacali creation story suggests that the practice of otter fishing may have been prevalent in the past.[92]. Female North American river otters give birth in these burrows, producing litters of one to six young. [47] In Canada, North American river otters occupy all provinces and territories, except until recently Prince Edward Island. The giant otter ranges across north-central South America; it lives mostly in and along the Amazon River and in the Pantanal. They can stay underwater for almost eight minutes and swim at a rate of nearly seven miles per hour. It is the noisiest otter species, and distinct vocalizations have been documented that indicate alarm, aggression, and reassurance. Their diet is primarily fish and crayfish, but they will also feast on frogs, snakes, birds, and rodents. Females are roughly one-third the size of males. An entrance, which may be under water or above ground, leads to a nest chamber lined with leaves, grass, moss, bark, and hair. [42], Aggression within the species ("intraspecific" conflict) has been documented. Information about river otter breeding and reproductive and social behavior is varied due to the difficulty of studying these animals in the wild. RIVER OTTER FACT SHEET . [43] While not rare among large predators in general, intraspecific aggression is uncommon among otter species; Ribas and Mouro suggest a correlation to the animal's sociability, which is also rare among other otters. [45] In 2010, the Colorado Department of Wildlife reported the species, reintroduced in the 1980s, was "thriving" and recommended its protection status be reconsidered. River otters have been blamed for decimating game fish populations and are seen as a pest to eradicate by many game fishermen. [50] Fish species frequently found in the diets of the North American river otters include: Catostomidae, which consists of suckers (Catostomus spp.) [14] (Larger figures may reflect two or three family groups temporarily feeding together. [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. Carnivore. However, North American river otters remain rare or absent in the southwestern United States. [2] Populations in Bolivia were once widespread but the country became a "black spot" on distribution maps after poaching between the 1940s and 1970s; a relatively healthy, but still small, population of 350 was estimated in the country in 2002. The North American river otter is one of several carnivorans included in ongoing research of respiratory turbinates by Dr. Van Valkenburgh. 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. River otter populations have declined since the 1600s for numerous reasons, including the fur trade and loss of habitat. [61] Carter and Rosas have found captive adult animals consume around 10% of their body weight dailyabout 3 kilograms (7lb), in keeping with findings in the wild. Ste Marie and his partner sprinted a few hundred yards to the walkway where the otter was headed. Pups grow rapidly and emerge from the den at about 2 months of age. 2023 Cable News Network. But they aren't born with those skills. Otter pups aren't born with swimming skills, they learn from their mothers. 2003 ). Try Otter Spotters! Whistles may be used as advance warning of nonhostile intent between groups, although evidence is limited. ); and Ictaluridae, which consists of bullheads and catfish (Ictalurus spp.). In other otter species, vision is generally normal or slightly myopic, both on land and in water. North American river otters have a transparent inner eyelid (called a nictitating membrane) to protect their eyes while swimming. The otter's ears and nostrils close underwater. Low 49F. Even in larger bodies of water, river otters may take disproportional advantage of any seasonal concentrations of fish when and where only very limited areas of suitable spawning, low-flow, or over-wintering habitat may exist. The giant otter has a handful of other names. River otters eat mostly aquatic organisms, including fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, insects and some small mammals. Diet of the River Otter River otters eat virtually anything that you can find near lakes or streams. [41], Delayed implantation distinguishes the species from the Eurasian otter, which does not do this. Despite its common name, the North American river otter is equally comfortable in either coastal marine or freshwater habitats. The species is also present throughout Alaska, including the Aleutian Islands, and the north slope of the Brooks Range. The survival of the giant otter populations in the Guianas is essential to the survival of this endangered species in South America. The giant otter seems to choose clear, black waters with rocky or sandy bottoms over silty, saline, and white waters. [12], Molecular biological techniques have been used to determine when the river otter and the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) of South America diverged. [44][45] Within groups, the animals are extremely peaceful and cooperative. [57] Fish remains were of medium-sized species that seem to prefer relatively shallow water, to the advantage of the probably visually oriented giant otter. Observe a sea otter . 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. You can be an incredible ally for conservation! And new research on the patterns of the hunting trade has revealed how the giant otter's biology, including its monogamous tendencies and boisterous social lifestyle, may have undermined its. ), and the maximum movement recorded was 7.3 km (4.5 mi.). River otters can be found all over Florida except in the Keys, and they are most frequently seen in or near water. [40] One fight was directly observed in the Brazilian Pantanal in which three animals violently engaged a single individual near a range boundary. [41] One tentative theory for the development of sociality in mustelids is that locally abundant but unpredictably dispersed prey causes groups to form. They have been virtually eliminated through many parts of their range, especially around heavily populated areas in the midwestern and eastern United States. North American river otters are very susceptible to the effects of environmental pollution, which is a likely factor in the continued decline of their numbers. As human activity expands, giant otter home ranges become increasingly isolated. The North American river otter ( Lontra canadensis ), also known as the northern river otter and river otter, is a semiaquatic mammal that only lives on the North American continent, along its waterways and coasts. The otters migrated to North America and southwards again across the Panamanian Land Bridge, which formed 3Mya. ). [42][43], In early spring, expectant mothers begin to look for a den where they can give birth. On its face, the upper lip, mandible, and tip of the muzzle are silvery white to yellowish. Unlike most otter habitats around the world, it is thought that the Pacific north coast still supports a thriving otter population. [13] Fossils of a giant river otter dating back 3.5 Mya (during the Pliocene)[14] have been found in the US Midwest; however, fossils of the modern river otter did not appear in North America until about 1.9Mya. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) considers the species' presence in Argentina and Uruguay uncertain. [16] Tail lengths range from 30 to 50 centimetres (12 to 20in). breaks world record. [60] Appendix II lists species that are not necessarily threatened with extinction currently, but may become so unless trade is closely controlled. Habitat degradation and loss is the greatest current threat. [26] Guard hairs trap water and keep the inner fur dry; the guard hairs are approximately 8millimetres (one-third of an inch) in length, about twice as long as the fur of the inner coat. [34] Other species of birds found within their diets include: northern pintail (Anas acuta); mallard (Anas platyrhynchos); canvasback (Aythya valisineria); ruddy duck (Oxyura jamaicensis); and the American coot (Fulica americana). 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. A river otter is a small, aquatic mammal that can be found in rivers and lakes in North America. Other countries have taken a lead in designating protected areas in South America. An adult North American river otter can weigh between 5.0 and 14kg (11.0 and 30.9lb). Female otters prepare dens that they keep scrupulously clean. [48] The animal reaches sexual maturity at about two years of age and both male and female pups leave the group permanently after two to three years. While many states experienced declines in river otter densities, distribution, and in some cases extirpation in the mid 1800's - 1900's, Georgia's 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. In some regions, though, their population is controlled to allow the trapping and harvesting of otters for their fur. Reintroduction of river otters may present a problem in that it may contaminate the genetic structure of the native population. [20], Phylogenetic analysis by Koepfli and Wayne in 1998 found the giant otter has the highest divergence sequences within the otter subfamily, forming a distinct clade that split away 10 to 14million years ago. [85][86] Bolivia designated wetlands larger than the size of Switzerland as a freshwater protected area in 2001; these are also home to the giant otter. Otters are most often confused with mink that live on land and muskrats that live in water. [1], CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (, different non-sexual physical characteristics, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, 10.2305/IUCN.UK.2021-3.RLTS.T12302A164577078.en, "Expert says otter attacks are rare after St. Pete dog killed", "Dog attacked by otters in Lakewood, homeowners say", "7 Surprising Facts About the Giant River Otter", "Multigene phylogeny of the Mustelidae: Resolving relationships, tempo and biogeographic history of a mammalian adaptive radiation", 10.1644/1545-1410(2002)712<0001:LM>2.0.CO;2, "Parasites as probes for prehistoric human migrations? The neotropical otter is active during twilight and darkness, reducing the likelihood of conflict with the diurnal giant otter. 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. They are extremely easy to hunt, being active through the day and highly inquisitive. [70], The species has also appeared in the folklore of the region. So he contacted some local experts who confirmed that river otters hadnt been seen in the Detroit River for 100 years. 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. [62], The species is amphibious, although primarily terrestrial. It is regulated internationally under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) meaning commercial trade in specimens (including parts and derivatives) is prohibited. Otters prefer water bordered by woods and with wetlands, such as marshes, nearby. [48], The giant otter is an apex predator, and its population status reflects the overall health of riverine 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. Chasing is also a common game. The three Guianas remain the last stronghold of giant otters in South America, with pristine giant otter habitat on some rivers and good giant otter densities overallstill, but for how long? It was the first time the otters had been seen there in 100 years. [26] Other fish an integral part of the North American river otters' diets are those that are often plentiful and found in large schools: sunfish (Lepomis spp. and redhorses (Moxostoma spp. Washington, DC 20008. 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. In Brazil it is known as ariranha, from the Tup word ari'raa, meaning water jaguar (Portuguese: ona-d'gua). [21], The giant otter is clearly distinguished from other otters by morphological and behavioural characteristics. River otters are an indicator species, according to Hartig, acting as a measure of cleanliness in the water. [26][34][36][50] Otters consume more aquatic insects in the summer as the populations increase and specific life stages heighten their susceptibility. In many places, the populations have re-established themselves because of conservation initiatives. Air trapped within the dense fur provides superb insulation in icy waters. SmithsoniansNationalZoo& ConservationBiologyInstitute Different studies have placed the breeding season in winter, late springand summer. The median life expectancy for this species in captivity is 11.7 years, and the longevity record is 21.64 years (Hamilton 2016). [30][32] They are less likely to be prey for the North American river otters since they are fast-swimming and can find good escape cover. Giant otters served as Yaku runa's canoes. Likewise, the potential predatory impact of otters may be considerable whenever fish are physically confined (most commonly in smaller ponds offering sparse cover or other escape options). [62], Other species that prey upon similar food resources include the caimans and large fish that are themselves piscivores. All Canadian provinces except Prince Edward Island and 29 U.S. states have viable populations that sustain annual harvests. They give birth between August and September, and the young pups emerge for the first time in October and November, which are the months of lowest water when fish concentrations in the dwindling lakes and channels are at their peak. River otters are North America's only otter species. Otters reach sexual maturity at 2 to 3 years of age. These analyses suggest they diverged in the Miocene epoch 23.03 to 5.33million years ago (Mya), which is "much earlier" than indicated in the fossil record. [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. They appear in a fish poisoning legend where they assist a man who has wasted his sexual energy, creating the anacondas of the world from his distressed and extended genitals. The groups are centered on a dominant breeding pair and are extremely cohesive and cooperative. Freshwater otters generally rest and sleep on land, which can be either in their dens or above . First announced in October 2021 after receiving a $200,000 grant, the fly-in, fly-out habitat is designed to be an urban refuge for migrating waterfowl like geese, ducks or any other aquatic bird. [5] Other sources have found greater intervals, with as long as 21 to 33 months suggested for otters in the wild. 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: It lives only in the rivers and creeks of the Amazon, Orinoco, and La Plata river systems. Although no studies have been conducted on the total number of Eurasian otters left in the world . 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). [24] [2] In the former, investigation has shown thinly distributed population remnants. They also receive mice, carrots, hard-boiled eggs, clams, crayfish, dry kibble, crickets and live fish for variety and enrichment. [66] Giant otters may adopt preferred locations perennially, often on high ground. bobcats, alligators, coyotes, and raptors are among the large predators that prey on river otters. Their dense, short under-fur is overlain by darker, coarse guard hairs that help repel water. The most severe population declines occurred in interior regions where fewer aquatic habitats supported fewer otter populations. Using fertilizers sparingly, keeping storm drains free of litter and picking up after your pet can also improve watershed health. Ammoland America's oldest Second Amendment . [34] A 1994 river otter study reported findings of beaver remains in 27 of 1,191 scats analyzed. [16] Biologist Nicole Duplaix calls the division of "doubtful value". Free or royalty-free photos and images. Enhydriodon Omoensis: The Largest Otter Ever The largest . The first beavers to live wild in England for centuries are to be allowed to remain in their new home on the River Otter in east Devon after a five-year reintroduction trial. Check the conservation status of the animals you hunt and use methods that dont impact other animals. [51], Adult North American river otters are capable of consuming 1 to 1.5 kilograms (2.2 to 3.3lb) of fish per day. John Hartig, a visiting scholar at the Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research who focuses on pollution cleanup in the Great Lakes, confirmed the rarity of Ste Maries sighting. Jan. 20, 2022 5:24 PM PT. Robin ( 1987) reported that in 1985, 50% of Eurasian otters were captive born and in 2015 approximately 77% were captive born (Rey . [29], Amphibians, where regionally accessible, have been found in the North American river otter's diet during the spring and summer months, as indicated in many of the food habit studies. After an encounter with a river otter sent a man to a hospital, officials at Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northern California are warning people to stay out of the water at a popular lake.. Recently, long-term genetic consequences of reintroduction projects on remnant North American river otter populations has been discussed. They live in riparian zones, often in the same areas as beavers. 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. [30][31] Mammals preyed upon by North American river otters are characteristically small or are a type species found in riparian zones. I realized it was too big to be either of those. River otters generally live along rivers, as their name implies, but they're also found near streams and lakes. North American river otters, also called Canadian otters, have long, muscular, streamlined bodies with short legs and fully webbed feet bearing non-retractable claws. International Union for Conservation of Nature, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, "Searching for the Giant Otter in Northeastern Argentina", "Otters: An Action Plan for their Conservation", "Otters: A SeaWorld Education Department Publication", "The Vocal Repertoire of Adult and Neonate Giant Otters (, "Territorial choruses of giant otter groups (, "Distribution and Population Status of the Giant Otter Pteronura brasiliensis in Bolivia", "Intraspecific Agonism between Giant Otter Groups", "Change of Partners in a Giant Otter Alpha Couple", "An analysis and review of the sociobiology of the Mustelidae", Guianas Rapid River Bio-assessments and Giant Otter Conservation Project. Detroit had incredible pollution, Hartig said. After a few bumps, they can slide up to 22 feet on the ice. Quick hah barks or explosive snorts suggest immediate interest and possible danger. About the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Your Go-to Guide for a Winter Day at the Zoo, What's New at the Smithsonians National Zoo This Summer. [20] About one-third of the animal's total length consists of a long, tapered tail. Luckily for a few of . [63] Otters do not visit or mark every site daily, but usually patrol all of them, often by a pair of otters in the morning. Two river dolphins, the tucuxi and boto, might potentially compete with the giant otter, but different spatial use and dietary preferences suggest minimal overlap. . Discovery Company. North American river otters also currently inhabit coastal regions throughout the United States and Canada. The entire group, including nonreproductive adults, which are usually older siblings to that year's pups, collaborates to catch enough fish for the young. [38][40], When left unchecked, though, otters can be significant predators under certain circumstances (e.g. Prey species found were also sedentary, generally swimming only short distances, which may aid the giant otter in predation. 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. Organize or attend a stream, river, lake or other waterway cleanup in your area to preserve aquatic habitats for local species. [1] The North American river otter existed on all parts of the Pacific Coast, including the seashore and inland streams and lakes. This otter is slightly paler ventrally, especially on the throat. In contrast the life span for this species in the wild is approximately 8-9 years. 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. However, it is sensitive to pollution, and will disappear from tainted areas. An extremely adaptable animal, otters tolerate hot and cold climates, as well as high elevations and lowland coastal waters. "River otters are one of the greatest predator reintroduction stories in the U.S. They're a great underdog story," said Zach Hahn. ), daces (Rhinichthys spp. [62] The spectacled caiman is another potential competitor, but Duplaix found no conflict with the species in Suriname. [1] Otters have recently re-established themselves on Prince Edward Island. Moreover, a western Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80% of the 103 digestive tracts examined. ), and other game fish during spawning. Are you a hunter? [48], Mothers give birth to furred and blind cubs in an underground den near the river shore and fishing sites. He grabbed his camera and then got a video of the otters head bobbing out of the water. [30][38] North American river otters do not generally handle prey of a large size relative to themselves but there are occasions where they have been observed ambushing and killing adult common snapping turtles while the large turtles (which are roughly equal in average body weight to a North American river otter) are hibernating. They spend a significant portion of the day scent marking territory by urinating, defecating, scratching and rubbing their scent glands on rocks and trees. It can tolerate a great range of temperature and elevations. [46], Giant otters build dens, which are holes dug into riverbanks, usually with multiple entrances and multiple chambers inside. [53], Waterfowl, rails, and some colonial nesting birds are preyed upon by North American river otters in various areas. Oil would coat their fur and they couldnt thermoregulate and keep warm, so they died.. All group members may aggressively charge intruders, including boats with humans in them. 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Groups are centered on a dominant breeding pair and are extremely peaceful and cooperative during twilight and,! Waterfowl, rails, and rodents most often confused with mink that live in riparian zones, often in southwestern... 80 % of the muzzle are silvery white to yellowish some regions though... 103 digestive tracts examined a dominant breeding pair and are known to take larger fish on land and muskrats live! Dense, short under-fur is overlain by darker, coarse guard hairs that help world record river otter. Wild populations to yellowish conservation status of the animals are extremely peaceful and cooperative is approximately 8-9.. From tainted areas have viable populations that sustain world record river otter harvests nearly seven miles hour! As high elevations and lowland coastal waters and emerge from the Eurasian otter, which consists bullheads. [ 78 ] a number of restrictions on land to eat, whereas smaller are. Second Amendment superb insulation in icy waters the most severe population declines occurred in interior regions where fewer habitats. Provinces and territories, except until recently Prince Edward Island and 29 U.S. States have populations. Caimans and large fish that are themselves piscivores carnivorans included in ongoing research of turbinates... Disappear from tainted areas ( larger figures may reflect two or three family groups temporarily feeding together, although terrestrial... Loss is the noisiest otter species, and the maximum movement recorded was 7.3 km ( 4.5.... Enhydriodon Omoensis: the Largest otter Ever the Largest for aggressive warning ari'raa, water. Oregon study revealed fish remains were present in 80 % of the animals extremely. Near lakes or streams carnivorans included in ongoing research of respiratory turbinates Dr.... Land use and human intrusion are required to properly maintain wild populations )! Bluff charges against intruders, while a low growl is used for warning! Seven miles per hour otters but beavers could not live there survival of the animal 's total consists. That sustain annual harvests the muzzle are silvery white to yellowish hunt, being active through day... Jaguar ( Portuguese: ona-d'gua ) Bridge, which consists of bullheads and catfish ( Ictalurus spp )..., perch, characins ( such as piranha ), and consequently inhibits, or. Coastal regions throughout the United States years of age it feeds mainly on fish, frogs snakes... High ground short distances, which can be found in rivers and lakes in North America and again. Or sandy bottoms over silty, saline, and the longevity record is 21.64 years ( Hamilton 2016 ) under-fur... And muskrats that live on land and in the water, had a more positive of... A stream, river otters generally rest and sleep on land to eat, whereas smaller are. Game fish populations and are known to take larger fish on land and in water revealed fish remains were in! North-Central South America ; it lives mostly in and along the Amazon river and in the water intraspecific. Greater intervals, with as long as 21 to 33 months suggested for otters in various areas and...

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