River Otters

River otters can be seen in freshwater, brackish, and salt water but are not considered a marine mammal and hence not managed by NOAA Fisheries. They can be found in coastal marshes, lakes, and streams throughout North America. River otters are about 4.5 feet and weigh 30 pounds. They live in family groups and construct dens in hollow logs, stumps, roots, or take over the den of a muskrat or beaver. However, they have also been known to build a den under houses, decks, and other manmade structures. To learn check out Oregon and Washington Departments of Fish and Wildlife.