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River Otter
Lontra canadensis
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Habitat
The most aquatic member of the weasel family, they live in and along rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes. Otters like to slide in the mud grass, and snow, and can swim underwater for ¼ mile.
Diet
This carnivore primarily eats fish, particularly slower-swimming fish like suckers and minnow, but will also eat crayfish and other shellfish, and occasionally turtles, snakes, muskrats, and young beavers.
Distinctive Characteristics
About three to four feet long from nose to tail, the northern river otter has sleek, dark brown, waterproof fur, short legs, and a long, thick, tapered tail.
Nocturnal/Diurnal
Mostly active at night.
Reproduction & Family Structure
Two to three kits are born in April in a den near the water.