Lutra canadensis This playful animal is found from Mexico north to Alaska. They are especially abundant throughout Canada.
Otters inhabit rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, marshes and inland waterways.
These social animals may make their home in a hollow log or abandoned beaver lodge, however they usually dig a hole into the bank of a stream or lake. This hole leads to a leaf-lined den. Otters can swim 3-4 mph underwater and up to 6 mph on the surface. They can stay submerged for up to 4 minutes. They have short legs and webbed toes to aid them in swimming.