Species MammalsPacific Coast River Otter

Pacific Coast River Otter

Lontra canadensis

CommonMammal
Illustration of Pacific Coast River Otter (Lontra canadensis)

The Pacific Coast population of the North American River Otter inhabits coastal streams, estuaries, and nearshore marine environments from Alaska to central California. These coastal otters regularly forage in kelp beds and rocky intertidal zones for fish, crabs, and rockfish. River otters are distinguished from sea otters by their smaller size, pointed tail, and ability to travel freely on land.

Habitat
Pacific Coast rivers, estuaries, and nearshore marine habitats
Diet
Fish, crabs, clams, and aquatic invertebrates
How common
Common

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