Northern River Otter

Maximum longevity: 27 years (captivity) Observations: There is a delayed implantation and thus the total gestation time varies from 290 to 380 days. The actual embryonic development takes about 60-63 days (Ronald Nowak 2003). One wild born female was as old as 27 when she died in captivity (Richard Weigl 2005).

Amphibians, fish, crayfish, and other invertebrates. Birds and small terrestrial mammals are also eaten on occation.

North America (Alaska west across northern Canada and the US to Nova Scotia)

Riparian zones, usually no more than a few hundred meters from water unless they are moving between rivers or lakes. River otters can tolerate a variety of environments including very cold and hot areas, high elevations, and coastal waters (rarely).

Distinguishing characteristics: long streamlined animals with a thick tapered tail and short legs, wide, rounded head, small ears, and nostrils that can be closed underwater. long thick whiskers. they are dark brown to black above a ligther color ventrally. throat and cheeks are usually a golden. The feet have claws and are completely webbed.