The river otter, Lutra canadensis , is an elusive aquatic mammal. It belongs to the mustelid or weasel family and is closely related to the sea otter, mink, badger, wolverine and weasel.
Otters stand out from the other members of the mustelid family due to it's playful temperament.
It's play includes shooting down slick muddy banks into creeks, playing with food, sticks and stones, and wrestling each other. On snow, they take three or four running steps, launch themselves and slide on their bellies. A scream is the danger call. Although Otters are a joy to watch they are mainly nocturnal but occasionally do venture out during the day. Few outdoor people are lucky enough to see otters in the wild, but those who do rarely forget the experience.