North American River Otters
North American river otters are known as an indicator species, meaning that their presence in a waterway indicates a healthy ecosystem. Since they are sensitive to the effects of pollution, North American river otters will only be found in clean, fresh water.
Join the Houston Zoo as we unite with zoos across the country to celebrate Otterly Mad Week, Sunday, May 30 through Saturday, June 5.
North American River Otter
North American river otters can have 50,000 hairs per square centimeter! The hairs are woven together to trap air close to the skin and keep the otter warm underwater.
Join the Houston Zoo as we unite with zoos across the country to celebrate Otterly Mad Week, Sunday, May 30 through Saturday, June 5.
North American River Otters
Otters are not born knowing how to swim, but must be taught how by their mothers.
Join the Houston Zoo as we unite with zoos across the country to celebrate Otterly Mad Week, Sunday, May 30 through Saturday, June 5.
North American River Otters
Otters have a very fast metabolism and need to eat frequently to keep up their strength. They can eat up to 20% of their body weight each day!
Join the Houston Zoo as we unite with zoos across the country to celebrate Otterly Mad Week, Sunday, May 30 through Saturday, June 5.
Otters in the wild spend 40-60% of their day foraging for food. They are carnivores and may eat fish, crustaceans, shellfish, small mammals, birds, eggs, frogs, and turtles.
Join the Houston Zoo as we unite with zoos across the country to celebrate Otterly Mad Week, Sunday, May 30 through Saturday, June 5.
