Creature Feature: North American River Otter

Tail Rudder

With a swish of its long, thick tail, an otter can twist and turn to outswim almost any fish.

Fabulously Furry

Each square inch of skin is covered with nearly 375,000 hairs. The thick fur keeps an otter cozy in icy water.

Touchy Mustache

Bushy whiskers help an otter feel for food in dark or murky water. The hairs can even detect currents created by fish swimming nearby.

Waterproof Snoot

Nose clips and earplugs aren’t needed. An otter can simply squeeze its schnoz and ears shut to keep out water.

Paddle Paws

Webbed toes turn paws into paddles. With a few kicks, an otter can rocket through water like a furry torpedo.