How to Track Otters

The river otter is part of the weasel family. They are nocturnal and you can easily spot them during the late evening and early morning hours. River otters don't hibernate and are active all year long. Although they are built for the water, river otters can run up to 18 mph.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Examine the track. The river otter has 5 toes on all feet, claws that register in the track and total webbing. The palm pad is a "C" shape. Front feet measure 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches long, hind feet measure 2 to 4 inches long.
2. Follow the gait. The general pattern for walking is all 4 prints showing, both front feet then both hind. A loping gait shows as front, front and one hind, then the other hind print. A gallop usually shows as a typical 2-2 pattern, with both fronts landing, then the hind feet.
3. Measure the stride. The average stride is 14 inches, with the shortest length measured at around 6 inches, and the longest being about 20 to 23 inches. You should see drag marks through the track where the otter drags its heavy tail. This tail drag is a great indicator when you're trying to decide what type of trail you are following.
4. Measure the straddle, or width of the cluster. The general width from outside edge of the left print to outside edge of the right print is around 15 inches, although this can vary greatly depending on the otter's speed.