Also known as: River otter
About three to four feet long from nose to tail, the northern river otter has sleek, dark brown, waterproof fur, short legs, and a long, thick, tapered tail.
Habitat & Range
The most aquatic member of the weasel family, they live in and along rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes. Otters like to slide in the mud grass, and snow, and can swim underwater for ¼ mile.
Life History
Diet: This carnivore primarily eats fish, particularly slower-swimming fish like suckers and minnow, but will also eat crayfish and other shellfish, and occasionally turtles, snakes, muskrats, and young beavers. Nocturnal/Diurnal: Mostly active at night. Reproduction & Family Structure: Two to three kits are born in April in a den near the water.
Hunting Season
Trapping: General trapping season Nov 2 - Dec 31. Spring beaver season (Jan-Apr) with tagging requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting North American River Otter in Maine
River otter in Maine are primarily taken by trappers during the general trapping season (Nov 2 - Dec 31). Otter taken during the spring beaver season (January through April) must be tagged within 10 days of harvest. A lower jaw or canine tooth must be submitted at fur registration. IFW staff must tag harvested otter.
When is North American River Otter hunting season in Maine?
Trapping: General trapping season Nov 2 - Dec 31. Spring beaver season (Jan-Apr) with tagging requirement.
What's another name for North American River Otter?
North American River Otter is also known as River otter in Maine.
What is the scientific name of the north american river otter?
The north american river otter's scientific name is Lontra canadensis.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Trapping: General trapping season Nov 2 - Dec 31. Spring beaver season (Jan-Apr) with tagging requirement. | Link |
| Maine | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | River otter in Maine are primarily taken by trappers during the general trapping season (Nov 2 - Dec 31). Otter taken du | Link |
