💙🦦 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

Why run when you can slide? This adorable river otter had too much fun in the snow at Yellowstone National Park! | ABC7NY

You g-otter check this out… This trio of river otters was recently filmed at Stagecoach State Park, taking advantage of some open water on the reservoir. Known for sliding on ice, snow and their playful swimming, seeing a river otter in the wild is something special. Did you know? A group of river otters can be called a romp, lodge, or raft (among several other names). Video description: A group of three river otters plays on ice and swims in a partially frozen lake. | Colorado Parks and Wildlif

New Orleans, Louisiana – October 2, 2025. Dramatic footage has surfaced showing a river otter coming to the aid of a stranded puppy during a catastrophic flood in a coastal neighborhood. The cream-colored pup was trapped on a partially submerged roof when the otter swam close and offered its back as a raft. After a tense moment, the puppy jumped onto the otter, who skillfully navigated the dangerous current to a safe garage nearby. This incredible rescue has since gone viral, highlighting the su