8.2K views · 512 reactions | 簾 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 | Facebook

Let's all start our day in this otterly delightful way - with this video of river otters swimming in Glenwood Canyon. Several Colorado mammals, including mink, beaver and muskrats, share the same habitat as river otters and are commonly confused with otters. All have dark brown fur and can be particularly difficult to distinguish from each other. River otters have long, torpedo-shaped bodies, short legs, a short snout and small, round ears. They also have a thick, muscular tail that tapers towar

Have you visited the North American river otters this winter? Cozy up in the log cabin at the Edward Mardigian Sr. River Otter Habitat, which features floor-to-ceiling acrylic windows that allow you to get nose-to-nose with these charismatic creatures. #DetroitZoo #ZooinWinter #VitaminZ | Detroit Zoo