About Otters

There are thirteen species of otters. The most well-known is the sea otter and the most numerous is the North American river otter. Unlike other marine mammals, otters have fur instead of blubber for warmth.

Appearance

Otters, which resemble weasels, have a double layer of fur for insulation and warmth, webbed feet, strong claws and diamond-shaped noses. Sea otters have a lighter head and darker body. The river otter is usually very dark, from grayish brown to almost black, with a lighter belly, throat and cheeks.

Size

Sea otters are between 4 to 5 feet long and weigh between 60 and 70 pounds. River otters are between 3 and 4-1/2 feet long and weigh between 15 and 25 pounds. Male sea otters are the heaviest of the otters.

Habitat

Sea otters are found in the Pacific waters along the coast of North America. River otters burrow near the water of lakes, rivers, streams and coastal marshes.

Food

Sea otters eat mussels, clams, abalone and crabs. River otters prefer fish but also eat crustaceans, reptiles, insects and birds.

Reproduction

Sea otters usually have only one pup at a time, while river otters can have litters of one to six.

References

• Otter Net
• National Geographic: North American River Otter