About:
Did you know river otters can dive to 60 feet? Learn more about North American river otters.
Care & Wellness:
The development of zoo animal diets uses careful research and design to meet each species’ needs. For otters, this means a diet of only fish. Keepers and veterinarians closely watch body condition, behavior, and consumption of diet. These observations may lead to adjustments to keep the otters healthy.
Behavior:
- Social, they often live in groups including a mother and pups or small groups of all males.
- Graceful swimmers, they can dive to 60 feet and often stay under water four minutes.
- Their playful manner strengthens bonds, marks territory, and helps hone hunting skills.
Endangered Status
- Extinct in Wild (EW)
- Critically Endangered (CR)
- Endangered (EN)
- Vulnerable (VU)
- Near Threatened (NT)
- Least Concern (LC)
- Not Evaluated (NE)
Fun Facts:
- They are often beneficial to game fish since otters regularly eat non-game fish, reducing competition.
- Touch and body posture are often used in communication, along with a wide variety of vocal calls.
- Sensitive whiskers help navigate murky water in search of food or obstacles.
