Freshwater sea otter (SciiFii)

The freshwater sea otter (Enhydra lutris flumen) is a subspecies of sea otter that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the wetlands, lakes, and rivers across North America to help boost biodiversity and to help control the spread of invasive zebra mussels, quagga mussels, and invasive crustacean and fish species not introduced by SciiFii. The freshwater sea otter spends most of its time in the water but, in some locations, comes ashore to sleep or rest. Freshwater sea otters have webbed feet, water-repellent fur to keep them dry and warm, and nostrils and ears that close in the water. Freshwater sea otters often float at the water's surface, lying on their backs in a posture of serene repose. They sleep this way, often gathered in groups. Freshwater sea otters sometimes float in forests of freshwater plants, in which they entangle themselves to provide anchorage in the swirling waters. These aquatic otters do more than sleep while floating on their backs. They are often seen with their prey and a rock that has been deftly snared from the ocean floor. Freshwater sea otters will place the rock on their chests, and repeatedly smash the prey against it until it breaks open to reveal the tasty meal inside. They dine on such aquatic creatures as crabs, snails, clams, mussels, and fish. Freshwater sea otters are one of the only otters to give birth in the water. Mothers nurture their young while floating on their backs. They hold infants on their chests to nurse them, and quickly teach them to swim and hunt. Freshwater sea otters are meticulously clean. After eating, they wash themselves in the ocean, cleaning their coat with their teeth and paws. They have good reason to take care of their coatsit helps them to remain waterproof and insulated against the cold. Freshwater sea otters have thick underfur that traps air to form an insulating layer against the chilly waters (they have no insulating fat). The conservation status of the freshwater sea otter is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the freshwater sea otter's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii