Login  |
Thursday, November 9, 2017
 
 
@ Your VisitMeet Our AnimalsMammalsRiver Otter
 


RIVER OTTER

The River Otter is an aquatic member of a group of animals known as Mustelids. Other Western North Carolina mustelids are the skunk, weasel and mink. Members of this family are characterized by the presence of strong-smelling anal glands which are used for communication between individuals and sometimes for defense.



   





  


River Otters are long, muscular, and very streamlined animals, well adapted for their aquatic existence. The brown to brownish-gray fur is short and water repellent. The ears are small and lie flat against the side of the head. An otter’s feet are strongly webbed and the tail is long and rudder-like. A clear, third eyelid called a nictitating membrane, covers the otter’s eyes when swimming under-water. This gives protection to the eye but allows the otter to see clearly. A typical adult otter weighs between 11 and 23 pounds and can measure three to four feet in length.







 

~ WNC Nature Center ~ 75 Gashes Creek Road ~ Asheville ~ NC 28805 ~
Phone (828) 259-8080

 

Privacy Statement | Terms Of Use
Copyright 2012 by grafx4APRCA