Already in the late 1800's this animal was scarce in Illinois. Its status is endangered in Illinois today. It is extirpated in the Wolfe Wildlife Refuge in Oak Lawn. The river otter's present condition is due to unregulated trapping and destruction of habitat. Now we have 12 different species of river otters in Illinois.
River otters feed on amphibians, crustaceans, fish, birds and some land mammals.
They have broad snouts, small ears, short legs with webbed feet, and a thick tail. It is a browish-grayish in color and they may reach 1 meter in length. They can weigh up to 30 lbs. In recent years they have made a comeback in Illinois. We hope to see them again at the Wolfe Wildlife Refuge.