By 1921 the otter was believed absent from Indiana. Reintroduction programs using wild-caught otters have been successful in over 20 other states. In 1994 a statewide survey of Indiana watersheds was conducted as a first step in Indiana's otter reintroduction. The Muscatatuck, Tippecanoe and Patoka river watersheds were found to be optimal and stocked with otters in 1995-1997. They are the same sub-species native to Indiana.
Biologists are very interested in sightings of otters along Blue River.
Canoers are encouraged to report otter sightings to the Cave Country Canoes office where DNR forms are available. River otters are rarely observed in the wild, but a trained eye can often detect their presence. Otter sign is identifiable in all seasons, but fall and winter are the best times. Otter droppings are soft, irregular masses that consist of fish bones, scales, crayfish shells and other indigestible material. Otter reintroductions in Indiana are financed almost entirely through contributions to the Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Fund on the Indiana Tax form.