North American River Otter

Ranging over much of North America, the river otter survives anywhere with access to abundant prey and clean water. Except for mothers with young, the river otter lives alone. It dens in a riverbank burrow, under a rock pile, in a thicket or even in another animal’s home such as a beaver’s lodge.

The river otter is famous for its playful antics – mud sliding, water sports and manipulating objects – which increases coordination and sharpens hunting skills.