8 NEBRASKAland • JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2017
A Mammal Brief
By Lindsay Rogers
The river
otter (Lontra
canadensis) is
the largest
member of the weasel
family in Nebraska, ranging from
35-52 inches long. It weighs from 11-30 pounds,
with males weighing more than females. Several Nebraska species
look like the northern river otter, including mink and beaver. Although
they're also in the Mustelidae family, mink are significantly smaller.
The range of the northern river otter extends throughout Canada and the
United States. They are found along waterways, lakes and wetlands.
In Nebraska, river otters can be found along all major river systems.
River otters are opportunistic and will eat foods that are most available. Fish make up the greatest portion of
the otter's diet, followed by crayfish. Other foods include amphibians, insects, small mammals and birds. In clear
water, river otters use their excellent swimming ability to capture fish by sight and direct pursuit. In murky water,
they use their whiskers to locate prey by movement.
River otters communicate using several methods. Vocalizations include chirps, growls, whistles and screams.
They also communicate through scent marking using a pair of scent glands located at the base of their tails. And
finally, they communicate through body language, including touch and posture.
River otters tend to be active at night, although in undisturbed areas they may be active during the day.
Anyone fortunate enough to observe an otter in the wild will not likely forget its playful, inquisitive nature or its
graceful swimming ability. ■
GRIER
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Lindsay Rogers is an outdoor
education specialist with the
Nebraska Game and Parks
Commission.
