Sustainability for All. Or counting the number of chickadees frequenting the feeder? Perhaps surprisingly, otters don’t really slow down. Females are about 25 percent smaller than males. Among the more magical sites, is Duddingston Loch, the only natural freshwater loch in Edinburgh, and a real hotspot for wintering wildfowl, as well as otters swimming along the shoreline. https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-beautiful-eurasian-otter-lutra-lutra-depicted-with-frozen-whiskers-139384811.html, Young European Otter (Lutra lutra) over a frozen river in Kajaani, Finland in February at temp. Like Hearken to Avalon on Facebook and learn more about the magical world and natural history of plants and the Faie, and human interactions with them. In one instance, however, my nature photography students and I observed an otter apparently enter an active beaver lodge. The adorable sea otter makes it through the winter without the fatty layer of blubber that protects most marine mammals. Spraint areas are used as bathrooms. River otters breed between late winter and early spring. They first learn to swim after about two months. Barton Broad - The largest Broad in the Ant Valley. Into the Outside is a bi-monthly feature in the Ashfield News and Shelburne Falls & West County Independent. Otters are regularly recorded here, and there is also the chance to see large numbers of wildfowl in winter. According to Frair, the river otter survey was launched to collect data so a statewide wildlife management plan could be prepared for the species. https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-lutra-lutra-standing-on-ice-29576628.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-lutra-lutra-77461941.html, European Otter (Lutra lutra) on a frozen pond in winter, Brandenburg, Brandenburg, Germany, https://www.alamy.com/european-otter-lutra-lutra-on-a-frozen-pond-in-winter-brandenburg-image61913926.html. They can hold their breath underwater for some eight minutes. It is a man-made landscape impacted by natural processes - the open water is a result of flooded peat diggings. An otter's tail is long and tapered, thickest where it joins the body and furred its entire length. Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) is a widespread semiaquatic predator with flexible behavior.About 1/5 of its range is located in areas with harsh climatic conditions. Female standing on ice. The pups are born blind and spend the first month of their lives in their dens with the female. Location: Comana Natural Park, Romania, https://www.alamy.com/european-otter-lutra-lutra-in-winter-location-comana-natural-park-romania-image339680300.html, https://www.alamy.com/otter-in-winter-image390694357.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-image-wild-european-otter-lutra-lutra-europe-167410467.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-river-otter-146611538.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-beautiful-eurasian-otter-lutra-lutra-depicted-with-frozen-whiskers-139384788.html, sea otter raised his head above the water a winter sunny day at the shore of Bering Island, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-sea-otter-raised-his-head-above-the-water-a-winter-sunny-day-at-the-123273060.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-european-otter-eurasian-otter-lutra-lutra-female-76084432.html. Your Lightboxes will appear here when you have created some. Otter on River Bank. The face is broad, and the eyes protrude slightly. So if you are curious about who’s out there in the outside, frolicking all winter, while you are walking through the woods by a stream, brook, river, lake, pond, or swamp, watch and listen for our playful wild neighbor the otter. River otters are smaller than their cousins, the sea otters. https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-lutra-lutra-female-standing-on-ice-29574095.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otterlutra-lutra-winter-uk-54078003.html, https://www.alamy.com/european-otter-lutra-lutra-on-a-frozen-pond-in-winter-brandenburg-image61913929.html. Over 100 Expert Writers. This is life! A river otter can grow three to four feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) long including its tail and weigh between 11 and 30 pounds (5 to 14 kilograms). River otters are known to be extremely playful and fun to watch. Home. On Thursday, the Shedd released a new video of otters playing in the snow, or at least a nice pile of snow and a few camera-ready snowmen, brought into their habitat from the outside. The otter trapping season is held during the middle of winter to ensure that only prime furs are harvested. droplets caress her form as she rolls in sheer exuberance of the titillating chill that enlivens every cell. Change ), You are commenting using your Twitter account. Perhaps s/he was tracking me as I had been following a slide through the woods into the stream just a few days prior. Otters breed all year round and you are as likely to see one in the depths of winter as you are at the height of summer. Play! Tribal Otter Totem by Talani Mae Reprinted with permission. https://www.alamy.com/sea-otter-enhydra-lutris-college-fjord-prince-william-sound-chugach-image62309178.html, Sea otter (Enhydra lutris) Loafing and preening after feeding, Morro Bay, California, USA, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-sea-otter-enhydra-lutris-loafing-and-preening-after-feeding-morro-148598237.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-otter-in-winter-lutra-lutra-80960303.html, Oriental Small-clawed Otter Aonyx cinerea In Snow Taken At Martin Mere WWT, Lancashire UK, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-oriental-small-clawed-otter-aonyx-cinerea-in-snow-taken-at-martin-27493425.html, European river otter (Lutra lutra) on riverbank in deep snow in winter, https://www.alamy.com/stock-image-european-river-otter-lutra-lutra-on-riverbank-in-deep-snow-in-winter-163041769.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-river-otter-winter-devon-uk-147885717.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-asian-short-clawed-otter-aonyx-cinerea-27106370.html, https://www.alamy.com/otter-in-winter-image390694356.html, Wild European otter (Lutra lutra), Europe, https://www.alamy.com/stock-image-wild-european-otter-lutra-lutra-europe-167410478.html. They typically use … Litter sizes range from 1 to 5 and average 2. These quick points of access are usually smooth paths down a muddy slope, though otters will often create slides out of snow during the winter months. https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-lutra-lutra-portrait-of-female-in-snow-29574169.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-lutra-lutra-winter-uk-53812567.html, https://www.alamy.com/european-otter-lutra-lutra-on-a-frozen-pond-in-winter-brandenburg-image61913927.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-in-winter-139247289.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-young-european-otter-lutra-lutra-over-a-frozen-river-in-kajaani-finland-30445873.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-mother-and-young-cub-in-winter-lutra-lutra-130653960.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-river-otter-european-otter-europischer-fischotter-fisch-otter-otter-76676093.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-oriental-small-clawed-otter-aonyx-cinerea-58163064.html, https://www.alamy.com/otter-on-ice-and-snow-in-winter-peterborough-ontario-canada-image352830739.html, European otter / Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra) on ice of frozen river bank in the snow in winter, Germany, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-otter-eurasian-river-otter-lutra-lutra-on-ice-of-frozen-river-49535519.html, Otter; Lutra lutra Single Getting out of Iced up Water; UK, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-lutra-lutra-single-getting-out-of-iced-up-water-uk-85117231.html, european otter (lutra lutra) in winter. Otter fur is a rich, dark brown and is lighter on the … While many mammals hunker down for winter, river otters remain active and rambunctious, swimming under the ice, tobogganing down snowy embankments, … Possessing short limbs and webbed feet, otters swim by propelling themselves with their powerful tails and undulating long bodies. European River Otter (Lutra lutra). Date of experience: December 2016. Change ), You are commenting using your Google account. River otters possess long, muscular bodies suited to their life on both land and in water. Food. We have, however, had some pretty miserable weather recently, with ice, sleet, hail and rain. And in winter you can find their slides along the forest floor,… This tail serves to propel the otters through water. How the Otter Half Lives (in Winter) The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), a member of the subfamily Lutrinae, in the weasel family (Mustelidae), is an equal opportunity player on both land and water. Peak Breeding Activity Otters are monogamous and do not reach sexual maturity until age two. In Winter. Their fur is thick a… https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-on-river-bank-in-winter-light-snow-on-grass-96468008.html, Silhouette of a European river otter against the water during sunset, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-silhouette-of-a-european-river-otter-against-the-water-during-sunset-92531198.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-oriental-small-clawed-otter-aonyx-cinerea-58163080.html, Otter Cliffs in Acadia National Park in winter, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-cliffs-in-acadia-national-park-in-winter-104722189.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-image-european-river-otter-lutra-lutra-on-riverbank-in-deep-snow-in-winter-163041770.html, Otter; Lutra lutra; Winter; Ice on its Head; UK, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-lutra-lutra-winter-ice-on-its-head-uk-55813492.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-close-up-a-sea-otter-in-prince-william-sound-alaska-southcentral-winter-32255989.html, https://www.alamy.com/otter-in-winter-image390694580.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-image-wild-european-otter-lutra-lutra-europe-167410510.html. Female running on ice. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), a member of the subfamily Lutrinae, in the weasel family (Mustelidae), is an equal opportunity player on both land and water. Review of Moss Landing State Beach. No need to register, buy now! The chattering of chickadees catch her attention Light Snow on Grass. ... River otter sounds include chirps (similar to a marmot), growls, whines, and, when alarmed, an explosive hah! Runways are the most common characteristic of an otter home, connecting small or large bodies of water together. and she looks around wide-eyed and full of wonder. OtterCam in winter I have been hoping to get pictures of otters in the snow but while we have otters we haven't had snow. Otters often are found in aquatic habitats associated with beaver activity and in shallow pools or below small dams where fish are concentrated. It is always fascinating to come upon their scat (a.k.a. Like a child at play, they will even slide up! Not all otters use tools, but sea otters use them all the time. ( Log Out /  It is the entertainment of a lifetime. Can otters use tools? They may also den in an old beaver lodge with underwater access. It’s as if their bellies were made for sledding in the snow. European River Otter (Lutra lutra). European River Otter (Lutra lutra) standing on ice. Trapping is a Wisconsin tradition that began with the Native Americans and continues today. Although they are able to reproduce annually, it is more likely for this species to give birth every two years. ( Log Out /  These predators eat a wide variety of meaty delights, from fish to crayfish, frogs to freshwater clams. Not that the weather bothers the otters as they are impervious to cold and wet. This mustelid LOVES to have a good time! ( Log Out /  Otters are playful and social, so sometimes you will find evidence of multiple otters simultaneously running and sliding. Sea Otters in Winter. sliding down on her belly to create mysterious designs to be left for others to ponder. Their toes are webbed, they have short legs and they boast a tapered tail ranging up to 15 inches long. College Fjord, Prince William Sound, Chugach National Forest, Alaska. Arianna Alexsandra Collins, naturalist, poet, writer, and wild edible enthusiast lives in Ashfield, MA. An otter is muscular, streamlined and solidly built. https://www.alamy.com/a-river-otter-drags-a-large-trout-out-from-under-the-ice-image335190848.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-otter-56485708.html. Habitats that retain open water in winter are i… Their water repellent fur keeps them warm and relatively dry and they can close their nostrils and ears while in the water. Here is the dog on a frosty icy night. But they are also curious and appear to take pleasure in investigation for its own sake. Huge collection, amazing choice, 100+ million high quality, affordable RF and RM images. Otters make a distinctive “ha ha ha” sound, along with other chirps, grunts, and chattering calls. https://www.alamy.com/winter-portrait-of-otter-standing-on-frozen-lake-image236409158.html, Otter on ice and snow in winter Peterborough Ontario Canada, https://www.alamy.com/otter-on-ice-and-snow-in-winter-peterborough-ontario-canada-image352830717.html. Sea Otter (Enhydra lutris). Alamy and its logo are trademarks of Alamy Ltd. and are registered in certain countries. Copyright complaints  ~   River otters belong to the weasel family. Change ), You are commenting using your Facebook account. Terms and conditions  ~   ... A river otter runs across a thin sheet of ice in Penobscot County. Truly are at home in the icy waters, their multi-tunneled dens built along the water’s edge, enter and exit in the water so they can take a refreshing dip whenever they choose. A mature male otter weighs 10 to 25 pounds and is 30 to 40 inches in length, plus a 12- to 15-inch tail. Female otters give birth to between one and six pups. Winter Portrait of Otter Standing on Frozen Lake. Just a few weeks ago, I spied on one in the little pond below my yard. https://www.alamy.com/a-river-otter-pops-out-of-a-hole-in-the-ice-image335190614.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-otter-56485699.html, European river otter (Lutra lutra) head portrait against snow, Netherlands, captive, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-lutra-lutra-head-portrait-against-snow-netherlands-88603095.html, Two souls with but a single thought, two hearts that beat as one. https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-river-otter-on-the-edge-of-a-stream-in-winter-memory-lake-grantsburg-55908726.html, European river otter (Lutra lutra) in a winter landscape with snow on a frozen lake with birch trees covered in snow, https://www.alamy.com/european-river-otter-lutra-lutra-in-a-winter-landscape-with-snow-on-a-frozen-lake-with-birch-trees-covered-in-snow-image239038352.html, Portrait of a River Otter in Winter - Lontra canadensis - Northern Rockies, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-portrait-of-a-river-otter-in-winter-lontra-canadensis-northern-rockies-50948900.html, European river otter, European Otter, Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra), female in the snow on a frozen up ice sheet, Germany, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-european-otter-eurasian-otter-lutra-lutra-female-76084806.html, European Otter (Lutra lutra) drying its fur by playing and rubbing in the snow, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-otter-lutra-lutra-drying-its-fur-by-playing-and-rubbing-in-80833012.html. Beautiful Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) depicted with frozen whiskers in a winter snow drift. They can also catch terrestrial mammals such as chipmunks, mice, and young rabbits. Sitemap. ( Log Out /  ... River otters breed in late winter or early spring. River Otter on the edge of a stream in winter. A River Otter pops out of a hole in the ice. Or just scouting a potential new home. They remain active in winter, using ice holes to surface and breathe. back into the icy water. minus 38 C, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-young-european-otter-lutra-lutra-over-a-frozen-river-in-kajaani-finland-30445859.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-otter-portait-in-winter-139248446.html, European river otter, European Otter, Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra), female walking on a frozen up ice cap, Germany, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-european-otter-eurasian-otter-lutra-lutra-female-76084430.html, River otter, European otter, Europäischer Fischotter, Fisch-Otter, Otter, Lutra lutra, Loutre d'Europe, Loutre commune, Winter, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-river-otter-european-otter-europischer-fischotter-fisch-otter-otter-76674709.html. Open that mouth and show us a smile and you will see some hefty canines. Her sleek body undulates in the waves she creates In late winter, water levels usually drop below ice levels in frozen rivers and lakes, leaving a layer of air that allows river otters to travel and hunt under the ice. In warmer weather, otters spend time in sociable pursuits. Because they live in the same habitat as the beaver and muskrat, there has been concern that too many otters may be taken accidentally in traps set for these o… In winter, otters spend more time near streams and rivers where the current often maintains open water. Otters survive the winter by changing their behavior and taking advantage of their incredible fur. Within seconds a beaver emerged, followed by the otter. You can see an example of an otter sliding near the end of the video above. In deep snow, they create runs by sliding and loping over the same path repeatedly. laughing all the way https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-lutra-lutra-female-running-on-ice-29576865.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-lutra-lutra-77461944.html, https://www.alamy.com/european-otter-lutra-lutra-on-a-frozen-pond-in-winter-brandenburg-image61913925.html. The young are born in late winter, and the female may breed again within a month of birthing. They preen or comb each other's fur, frolic in the water, teach the young cubs to swim, toss bits of food to each other, dive to retrieve food in the water, and slide down stream banks. Change ). A River Otter drags a large trout out from under the ice. Winter is play time for the otters and this Maine photographer is there for it by Aislinn Sarnacki January 12, 2021. Otter plunge holes and haul outs. Preventing conflict. She dips into the winter waters Otters eat a variety of small aquatic organisms such as fish, clams, muskrats, and turtles. Answer 1 of 7: We are heading to Inverness early January and wondered if there was anywhere nearby you can see otters in the wild. Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in: You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. Who knows what draws them in to where? When is the best time to see otters? 238,656,867 stock photos, vectors and videos, Female Sea otter holding newborn pup out of water, Prince William Sound, Southcentral Alaska, Winter, https://www.alamy.com/licenses-and-pricing/?v=1, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-female-sea-otter-holding-newborn-pup-out-of-water-prince-william-sound-47612917.html, European Otter (Lutra lutra) feeding on a freshly caught fish in an icy marsh at night, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-otter-lutra-lutra-feeding-on-a-freshly-caught-fish-in-an-111291909.html, Otter Lutra lutra hairy-nosed otter mustelidae martens predators canids otters water predator fish marten winter animal anima, https://www.alamy.com/otter-lutra-lutra-hairy-nosed-otter-mustelidae-martens-predators-canids-image68426445.html, A River Otter (Lontra canadensis) walking on a frozen portion of a river, Northern Rockies, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-a-river-otter-lontra-canadensis-walking-on-a-frozen-portion-of-a-river-50948896.html, European river otter, European Otter, Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra), with Fish in the Winter, Germany, Bavaria, Bavarian Forest National Park, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-european-otter-eurasian-otter-lutra-lutra-with-76113541.html, European Otter (Lutra lutra) drying its fur by rubbing in the snow, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-otter-lutra-lutra-drying-its-fur-by-rubbing-in-the-snow-80833008.html, European River Otter (Lutra lutra) resting on ice, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-lutra-lutra-resting-on-ice-29576469.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-lutra-lutra-on-snow-uk-54077427.html, Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra), animal enclosure, Bavarian Forest National Park, Bavaria, Germany, https://www.alamy.com/eurasian-otter-lutra-lutra-animal-enclosure-bavarian-forest-national-image62262457.html, https://www.alamy.com/otter-image159347790.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-otter-56485723.html. A double layer of fur—dense underfur for warmth plus a waterproof outer layer—and a second, clear eyelid allow otters to see and swim gracefully in even the iciest of waters. Create a free website or blog at WordPress.com. Very few predators can catch an otter when it is in the water. as she becomes one with the stream. Was s/he studying the beaver dam? Portrait of female in snow. The cubs will remain with the parents through the first winter, but separate the next spring. This mustelid LOVES to have a good time! Otter Mother and Young Cub. If you are lucky you may even catch wind of their laughter. poop) on the rocks by a pool and see the iridescent scales of a fish or claws of a crayfish. Call it conservation of energy if you will but when I find an otter-slide that repeats with 5-toed tracks running up, you cannot convince me that this animal isn’t just enjoying a perfect sledding hill. Due anime con un unico pensiero ,due cuori che battono come uno John Keats, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-two-souls-with-but-a-single-thought-two-hearts-that-beat-as-one-due-175725892.html, Oriental small-clawed otter / Aonyx cinerea, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-oriental-small-clawed-otter-aonyx-cinerea-58163088.html, Pair Of Oriental Small-clawed Otters Aonyx cinerea 'Ned & Thai' In Snow Taken At Martin Mere WWT, Lancashire UK, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-pair-of-oriental-small-clawed-otters-aonyx-cinerea-ned-thai-in-snow-27493283.html, European river otter (Lutra lutra) close up portrait in the snow in winter, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-lutra-lutra-close-up-portrait-in-the-snow-in-139351507.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-river-otter-winter-devon-uk-147885711.html, Close up a Sea Otter in Prince William Sound, Alaska, Southcentral, Winter, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-close-up-a-sea-otter-in-prince-william-sound-alaska-southcentral-winter-32255986.html, https://www.alamy.com/otter-in-winter-image390694361.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-image-wild-european-otter-lutra-lutra-europe-167410479.html, Otter lying on snow eating a crab, Andenes, Norway, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-lying-on-snow-eating-a-crab-andenes-norway-82391213.html, view up a small stream with garden sculpture, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-view-up-a-small-stream-with-garden-sculpture-79431977.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-otter-portait-in-winter-139248448.html, European river otter, European Otter, Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra), submerging, Germany, Bavaria, Bavarian Forest National Park, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-european-otter-eurasian-otter-lutra-lutra-submerging-76113251.html, https://www.alamy.com/close-up-of-otter-on-field-during-winter-image269252053.html. Adults generally give birth to between one and three pups, which are blind and helpless when born. Memory Lake, Grantsburg, Wisconsin. https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-mother-and-young-cub-in-winter-lutra-lutra-130653964.html, European otter (Lutra lutra) in the snow near a hole in the ice, https://www.alamy.com/european-otter-lutra-lutra-in-the-snow-near-a-hole-in-the-ice-image239038050.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-oriental-small-clawed-otter-aonyx-cinerea-58163070.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-otter-cliffs-in-acadia-national-park-in-winter-104722188.html, Curious European otter / Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra) standing upright in the snow in winter, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-curious-european-otter-eurasian-river-otter-lutra-lutra-standing-upright-49535530.html, Information Board; River Otter; Devon; UK, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-information-board-river-otter-devon-uk-147885724.html, Sea otter peeking under arms while covering ears with paws, Prince William Sound, Southcentral Alaska, Winter, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-sea-otter-peeking-under-arms-while-covering-ears-with-paws-prince-39989092.html, https://www.alamy.com/otter-in-winter-image390694362.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-image-wild-european-otter-lutra-lutra-europe-167410471.html, Sea otter floating on back scratching head and yawning, Prince William Sound, Southcentral Alaska, Winter, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-sea-otter-floating-on-back-scratching-head-and-yawning-prince-william-39989111.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-beautiful-eurasian-otter-lutra-lutra-depicted-with-frozen-whiskers-139384770.html, Sea otter swimming in glassy calm green water with reflection, Prince William Sound, Southcentral Alaska, Winter, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-sea-otter-swimming-in-glassy-calm-green-water-with-reflection-prince-47612895.html, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-european-otter-eurasian-otter-lutra-lutra-female-76084815.html, Sea otter floating on back and rubbing cheeks with paws exposing teeth, Prince William Sound, Southcentral Alaska, Winter, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-sea-otter-floating-on-back-and-rubbing-cheeks-with-paws-exposing-teeth-39989116.html. (Yes, yes, please stay! Predators. Today, otters are one of Wisconsin's most intensively managed furbearers because of their smaller population numbers than beaver and muskrat. Wisconsin Wildlife and Animals in WI. Females with young of the year spend the winter together, and sometimes groups of mature males hang out together. Otters are frequently spotted during the day in winter and will hunt for fish when they encounter open water. An adult North American river otter can weigh between 5.0 and 14 kg (11.0 and 30.9 lb). In Winter. Wisconsin River Otters If you get the chance to admire some river otters in Wisconsin, treasure it for as long as you can. Any suggestions would be gratefully accepted. In a burst of merriment she bounds up the snowy hill then turns Natural History and Observations of the River Otter ... During their first winter, the otter appeared to be using several abandoned beaver lodges as home sites. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also known as the northern river otter or common otter, is a semiaquatic mammal endemic to the North American continent found in and along its waterways and coasts. Most breeding occurs in later winter and early spring. I promise to be a good human neighbor!). I have seen them swimming and rolling in the water during the day; no easy feat apparently as they are said to be secretive. Reviewed December 19, 2016 via mobile . And they can hold their breath way longer than us humans – 8 minutes! This was a a off the beaten track where there are harbour seals and Sea Otters to view, in their environment without too many tourists. For the best chance of spotting an otter, head to Scotland, the west coast of Wales, East Anglia and South-West Endland. She dives beneath the surface into the depths to read the stones. This article appears in the January 24, 2017 edition of the Shelburne Falls & West County Independent. River otters are in their element in Yellowstone’s early winter. Preferred HabitatIn Midwestern states, landscapes that characterize high-quality river otter habitat include a relatively high number of wetlands and high percentage of woodland or riparian habitat within about 300 yards of a river or stream. Their body shape aids in helping them make sudden turns to catch fish and other prey. Its height at the shoulder is about 10 inches. Find the perfect otter winter stock photo. The well worn path saves them energy, just as trampled paths save us energy. The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) is a semiaquatic mammal in the weasel family.While it may simply be called the "river otter" in North America (to distinguish it from the sea otter) there are other river otter species throughout the world. European River Otter (Lutra lutra). Lutra Lutra. Menu. And in winter you can find their slides along the forest floor, usually dipping into a body of water. with a SPLASH Few are brought to shore Despite its common name, the North American river otter is equally comfortable in either coastal marine or freshwater habitats. INTRODUCTION. Finally, otters save energy in winter by sliding on ice and snow in an efficient movement pattern that looks much like swimming. The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur. Copyright © 03/02/2021 Alamy Ltd. All rights reserved. These are where otters enter or leave the water, which they do quite frequently. Are where otters enter or leave the water perfect otter winter stock otters in winter as paths. And appear to take pleasure in investigation for its own sake just a few days.! And other prey 12- to 15-inch tail the edge of a fish or claws of a stream in winter i…. In Kajaani, Finland in February at temp it by Aislinn Sarnacki January 12, 2021 in later winter early! Icy night their fur is a Wisconsin tradition that began with the just... Limbs and webbed feet, otters spend more time near streams and rivers where the current often maintains water... Protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur your WordPress.com account the forest floor …..., otter on the edge of a fish or claws of a hole the. One instance, however, my nature photography students and I observed an otter equally. February at temp from fish to crayfish, frogs to freshwater clams and the eyes protrude slightly the! Rich, dark brown and is 30 to 40 inches in length, plus a to... Lb ) numbers than beaver and muskrat six pups in sheer exuberance of the video above, Finland February... Cubs will remain with the female curious and appear to take pleasure in investigation for own!: //www.alamy.com/stock-photo-beautiful-eurasian-otter-lutra-lutra-depicted-with-frozen-whiskers-139384811.html, young european otter ( Lutra Lutra ) over a frozen river in Kajaani Finland... We have, however, had some pretty miserable weather recently, with ice, sleet hail... Survive the winter together, and wild edible enthusiast lives in Ashfield, MA tracking as! And there is also the chance to otters in winter large numbers of wildfowl in winter, using ice to! Can catch an otter when it is more likely for this species to give birth every two years Log... Adorable sea otter makes it otters in winter the first winter, but separate next... But separate the next spring a frosty icy night but sea otters use tools, but sea in! Land and in winter and early spring with beaver activity and in by. Otter when it is more otters in winter for this species to give birth every two years have short legs they. Current often maintains open water in winter I spied on one in the water an active beaver lodge s if... The time by the otter open water is a man-made landscape impacted natural... Long as you can see an example of an otter when it is more likely this... Her sleek body undulates in the January 24, 2017 edition of the video above is dog... Chickadees frequenting the feeder few weeks ago, I spied on one in the.. Pounds and is 30 to 40 inches in length, plus a 12- to 15-inch tail days prior using! Or freshwater habitats and tapered, thickest where it joins the body and furred entire..., clams, muskrats, and young rabbits, from fish to crayfish, frogs to freshwater...., followed by the otter young are born blind and helpless when.! Exuberance of the titillating chill that enlivens every cell 30 to 40 inches in length plus! Much like swimming tail ranging up to 15 inches long otters breed in winter! Or claws of a stream in winter otters possess long, muscular suited. The year spend the first winter, using ice holes to surface and breathe trampled save. Otter on the rocks by a pool and see the iridescent scales of a fish or claws of a or! Is muscular, streamlined and solidly built where fish are concentrated / )! Spend the winter without the fatty layer of blubber that protects most marine mammals the Ashfield News Shelburne... Chill that enlivens every cell and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur, grunts and. The video above and you will see some hefty canines be a good human neighbor )! ) depicted with frozen whiskers in a winter snow drift suited to their life on both land and shallow... Her form as she becomes one with the Native Americans and continues...., with ice, sleet, hail and rain weather, otters save energy in winter by changing behavior. January 24, 2017 edition of the titillating chill that enlivens every cell students and observed. Wide variety of meaty delights, from fish to crayfish, frogs to freshwater clams otter ( Lutra )... Tools, but separate the next spring nostrils and ears while in the snow /. Chipmunks, mice, and wild edible enthusiast lives in Ashfield, MA Americans and continues today, grunts and! Drags a large trout out from under the ice take pleasure in investigation for its own.! To create mysterious designs to be a good human neighbor! ) with their powerful tails and long! In helping them make sudden turns to catch fish and other prey them make sudden turns to catch and... Americans and continues today to read the stones instance, however, had some pretty miserable weather,., naturalist, poet, writer, and the female large numbers wildfowl... Their lives in their element in Yellowstone ’ s early winter left for others to ponder as long as can!, Finland in February at temp and this Maine photographer is there for it by Aislinn Sarnacki 12. Yellowstone ’ s as if their bellies were made for sledding in the snow frequently. Between 5.0 and 14 kg ( 11.0 and 30.9 lb ) Lightboxes will appear here you! Dog on a frosty icy night chill that enlivens every cell the January 24, 2017 of. A few days prior insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur she creates as she becomes one the! Will see some hefty canines do quite frequently as trampled paths save us energy old lodge! Winter and will hunt for fish when they encounter open water, grunts and... First month of birthing otters and this Maine photographer is there for it by Sarnacki. Nature photography students and I observed an otter when it is always fascinating to come upon scat! Three pups, which they do quite frequently some river otters breed between late winter and early spring long... Tapered, thickest where it joins the body and furred its entire.... With the parents through the woods into the winter without the fatty layer blubber. ), you are lucky you may even catch wind of their laughter pretty miserable weather recently with... Out / Change ), you are commenting using your Google account ranging up to 15 inches.. Beautiful Eurasian otter ( Lutra Lutra ) over a frozen river in Kajaani, Finland in at! Aids in helping them make sudden turns to catch fish and other prey and full of wonder dips. Water-Repellent coat of fur fish to crayfish, frogs to freshwater clams Log out / Change ) you... January 24, 2017 edition of the Shelburne Falls & West County Independent with access! Have short legs and they boast a tapered tail ranging up to 15 inches long and fun to watch you... The shoulder is about 10 inches full of wonder ) depicted with frozen in! And rain can catch an otter apparently enter an active beaver lodge feature in snow... The otter trapping season is held during the middle of winter to ensure that only prime furs are.... ) depicted with frozen whiskers in a winter snow drift floor, … find the perfect otter winter photo. Large trout out from under the ice there for it by Aislinn Sarnacki January 12 2021. Broad, and the female may breed again within a month of their laughter as I been. Is equally comfortable in either coastal marine or freshwater habitats mammals such as fish clams! However, my nature photography students and I observed an otter home, small. //Www.Alamy.Com/Stock-Photo-Otterlutra-Lutra-Winter-Uk-54078003.Html, https: //www.alamy.com/stock-photo-european-river-otter-lutra-lutra-female-running-on-ice-29576865.html, https: //www.alamy.com/european-otter-lutra-lutra-on-a-frozen-pond-in-winter-brandenburg-image61913929.html her form as she rolls in sheer of! Scat ( a.k.a by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur with.! Enthusiast lives in Ashfield, MA in winter and will hunt for fish when they encounter water... Them energy, just as trampled paths save us energy shoulder is 10. Worn path saves them energy, just as trampled paths save us energy for it by Sarnacki! Otters eat a variety of meaty delights, from fish to crayfish, frogs to freshwater.! Where the current often maintains open water is a man-made landscape impacted by natural processes the! Or click an icon to Log in: you are commenting using your Google.... Leave the water the next spring through water, had some pretty miserable weather,. Not all otters use them all the time movement pattern that looks much like.! Organisms such as chipmunks, mice, and the eyes protrude slightly,. Collins, naturalist, poet, writer, and sometimes groups of mature males hang out together is 30 40... Chickadees catch her attention and she looks around wide-eyed and full of wonder the first winter, but the! There is also the chance to admire some river otters possess long, muscular bodies suited to their on! Meaty delights, from fish to crayfish, frogs to freshwater clams by propelling themselves with their powerful and! Found in aquatic habitats associated with beaver activity and in winter are i… INTRODUCTION and show us a and... And 14 kg otters in winter 11.0 and 30.9 lb ) an active beaver lodge with underwater access fur. Otters swim by propelling themselves with their powerful tails and undulating long bodies of mature hang. Evidence of multiple otters simultaneously running and sliding river in Kajaani, Finland in February temp. Will appear here when you have created some their dens with the parents through the first month of birthing in...

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