North American River Otter Lontra canadensis

Identification
This species has a sleek brown body with webbed feet and a muscular tail. It is well adapted for aquatic life.

Location
Uncommon but increasing

Size
10 to 30 pounds

Diet
It feeds on fish amphibians and crustaceans.

Habitat
It occurs in rivers wetlands and lakes across Ohio.

Activity Period
Year round

Behavior
It is social and playful and often travels in family groups. It slides on snow and mud for movement. It is active year round.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in late winter with delayed implantation.

Population
The population is increasing statewide.

History
It was once extirpated but reintroduced successfully.

Human Interactions
It rarely conflicts with humans.

Facts
It is one of the most aquatic mammals in Ohio.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Fish amphibians crustaceans | Rivers wetlands lakes | Statewide expanding