River Otters
Lontra canadensis • The Playful Coastal Wanderers
More slender than sea otters, river otters are often seen near the shoreline and docks around Telegraph Cove, moving easily between freshwater and saltwater environments. Their playful nature and curious personalities make them a delight to observe.
Physical Characteristics
River otters have long, streamlined bodies with short legs and webbed feet. They typically measure 0.9-1.2 meters in body length with a tail adding another 30-50 cm.
Adults weigh 5-14 kg, much smaller than sea otters. Their fur is dark brown to almost black on the back, with lighter brown or gray undersides.
Unlike sea otters, river otters have visible ears, a longer tail relative to body size, and spend significant time on land. They have dense, water-repellent fur with two layers for insulation.
Habitat & Movement
River otters in coastal British Columbia frequently use both marine and freshwater habitats. They’re often seen in harbors, estuaries, and along rocky shores.
On land, they bound in a characteristic loping gait and often slide down muddy or snowy banks. They create well-worn paths between water bodies.
They’re excellent swimmers, using their powerful tails as rudders. They can swim at speeds up to 11 km/h and dive to depths of 20 meters.
Playful Behavior
Social Nature
River otters are highly social and playful. They’re often seen sliding, wrestling, and chasing each other. Play serves to strengthen social bonds and teach young otters important skills.
Family groups typically consist of a mother and her offspring, though adult males may form bachelor groups. They communicate through chirps, growls, and whistles.
Daily Activity
They’re most active during dawn and dusk but can be seen at any time. In coastal areas, their activity often follows tidal patterns.
They use dens in natural hollows, abandoned beaver lodges, or cavities in root systems along banks. Coastal otters often rest in caves above the high tide line.
Diet & Hunting
River otters are opportunistic carnivores. In coastal areas, they feed on fish (rockfish, sculpin, perch), crustaceans (crabs, crayfish), mollusks, and occasionally seabirds and their eggs.
They hunt by sight and touch, using their sensitive whiskers to detect prey in murky water. They typically eat small prey in the water but bring larger catches to shore.
Unlike sea otters, they don’t use tools but are skilled at manipulating prey with their dexterous front paws. They need to consume 15-20% of their body weight daily.
Fascinating Facts
Can hold their breath for up to 8 minutes underwater
Have a third eyelid that protects their eyes underwater
Can close their nostrils and ears when diving
Live 8-13 years in the wild, up to 25 in captivity
Have 36 sharp teeth perfect for gripping slippery fish
Mark territory with scent from anal glands called “spraints”
Conservation Status
River otters have stable populations in British Columbia and are not currently at risk. They’ve recovered well from historical overhunting for their fur.
As indicator species, healthy otter populations suggest good water quality and abundant prey. They’re sensitive to pollution, making them important for monitoring ecosystem health.
Main threats include habitat loss, water pollution, and vehicle strikes. They benefit from shoreline protection and maintenance of riparian corridors.
Best Viewing Times
Year-round
Most active at dawn and dusk. Look for them around docks, estuaries, and rocky shores. Listen for their chirping calls and watch for their distinctive bounding gait on land.