This Otter Be Interesting...

If a North American River Otter is different from a Sea Otter, then when a River Otter takes up residence in a lake, is it still a called a River Otter?  Or does it become known as a Lake Otter? Or is it just known as an Otter at that point?  These are the types of questions that are starting to being asked more frequently as the number of sightings of a North American River Otter in Angle Lake have increased. Sightings have been reported from the Anderson (post 52) and Hill (post 33) properties on the east side of the lake.

The northern river otter or the common otter is the largest member of the weasel family. This is a semi aquatic mammal equally versatile in the water and on land. River otters generally feed on prey that is in larger supply and easier to catch. Fish is a favored food among the otters, but they also consume various amphibians, turtles, and crayfish.  Generally, slow-swimming fish are consumed more often than game fishes when both are equally available. Slow-moving species include suckers, sunfish and bass.

As part of the Living with Wildlife series, Washington State Fish and Wildlife offer a publication featuring information on river otters and a copy is available for download HERE.

An adult river otter can weigh between 10 and 30 lbs. While not normally considered dangerous to humans, they are also not known to be shy either!  Never instigate a close encounter with a river otter. As with any wild animal possessing razor sharp teeth and dagger like claws, it is well advised to keep at a safe distance from the animal.

Name the Otter! 

What name would you suggest best fits our Angle Lake Otter?  Leave your comment here.  The individual suggesting the most popular name won’t receive any significant cash reward, but maybe we can present you with an Angle Lake Shore Club T-shirt and bragging rights – which in my opinion can both be considered priceless gifts!