Also known as: North American river otter, Northern river otter
The river otter is a semiaquatic furbearer species managed in Delaware. River otters are playful, active predators with streamlined bodies adapted for swimming. They are classified as a furbearer under Delaware trapping regulations. CITES tagging is mandatory: otters must be tagged by an authorized representative of the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife per CITES requirements. The Best Management Practices program provides guidelines for otter trapping.
Habitat & Range
River otters inhabit rivers, streams, marshes, ponds, and estuaries throughout Delaware.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is river otter trapping legal in Delaware?
Yes, river otters are classified as a furbearer in Delaware. CITES tagging is mandatory — the animal must be tagged by DNREC before sale or out-of-state shipment.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Classified as a furbearer in Delaware. CITES tagging mandatory: otters must be tagged by authorized DNREC representative | Link |
