It’s World Otter Day, so we’re giving the spotlight to North American River Otters! Found throughout the Midwest near rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water, river otters are specialists in semi-aquatic living. They have thick, warm fur, webbed feet, a long tail, and a narrow body. These adaptations make them incredible swimmers in almost any kind of water throughout the year, even in the harshest winter weather. River otters can stay under water for up to eight minutes, using their whiskers t

💙🦦 North American river otters are considered a keystone species, which means other species in the same habitat largely depend on the existence of river otters. They are a top predator and their presence also reflects the health of the ecosystem around them. Find river otters, and you will find healthy streams and rivers. 💧👋 See them at American Trail! | Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute