Florida is home to a thriving population of otters. These native animals are often observed in various aquatic environments across the state.
The North American River Otter in Florida
The North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis) is the species found across Florida. These semi-aquatic mammals possess a streamlined body, short legs, and webbed feet. They typically measure between 2.5 and 5 feet in length, including their long, muscular tail, which can comprise up to 40% of their total body length. Adult river otters generally weigh between 10 and 33 pounds, with males often being larger than females.
Their fur is dense and water-repellent, appearing dark brown to gray on their backs and a lighter, silvery shade on their undersides. Otters have small heads with eyes and ears positioned high, allowing them to see and hear while swimming on the surface. They also possess long, sensitive facial whiskers that aid in detecting prey in dark or murky water.
Florida Habitats for Otters
North American River Otters inhabit a wide array of aquatic environments throughout Florida. They can be found in freshwater systems such as rivers, creeks, lakes, ponds, and swamps. They also thrive in brackish water habitats, including marshes, estuaries, and coastal areas.
These environments are suitable for otters due to the consistent availability of water. Florida’s abundant waterways provide a rich source of food and offer shelter in the form of den sites. Otters often establish their dens, known as holts, in abandoned burrows of other animals, natural hollows under logs, or within riverbanks. These dens commonly feature underwater entrances, providing easy access from the water.
Otter Behavior and Diet
North American River Otters are social animals, often observed alone, in pairs, or in small family groups. They are known for their playful nature, engaging in activities such as wrestling, chasing, and sliding down muddy banks or snow-covered hills. These playful behaviors are believed to strengthen social bonds and help young otters refine their hunting techniques.
Otters are skilled swimmers and divers, capable of remaining submerged for up to eight minutes and diving to depths of 36 feet or more. Their streamlined bodies, powerful tails, and webbed feet allow them to propel through water at speeds of up to 8 miles per hour. While often active during twilight hours or at night, they can also be seen during the day, particularly in winter.
Their diet primarily consists of aquatic organisms, including fish, crayfish, amphibians, and small turtles. They also occasionally prey on birds, their eggs, and small mammals. Otters use their sensitive whiskers to detect prey in dark or cloudy water and often capture food with their mouths, though they may use their forepaws to grasp items. They consume smaller prey in the water, while larger catches are often brought to land.