Otter Falls is home to our North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), Stark, who was born here on February 16, 2013.
Stark is a highly active and curious North American river otter. He is tons of fun to watch as he jumps, swims, does water flips and slides on his belly on snow and ice.
Occurring throughout North America, river otters can be found in rivers, lakes, freshwater wetlands, salt marshes, and estuaries. Unfortunately, they are rarely found on Long Island. They are predators, feeding on a variety of fish, amphibians, turtles, and crayfish. Their activity is based on the time of the year, as they can be nocturnal, diurnal, or crepuscular.
Stark’s habitat, Otter Falls, is about 1,500 square feet with a nine foot waterfall that cascades into the otter pool. It emulates a temperate riverbank, complete with a 35 square foot interactive Beaver Den that provides guests with a three-foot underwater view into the pool and a viewing window into their Day Den!
Lecture Session: 3:45pm daily
North American River Otter
Scientific Name: Lontra canadensis
Weight: 10-35 pounds.
Length: 3-5 feet.
Lifespan: 10-20 years.
Range: Throughout Canada and the United States.
Habitat: temperate freshwater river and lakes.
The current status for the population of North American river otters is of least concern and populations have remained stable throughout most of the country. However, river otters have faced challenges on Long Island that caused the population to decline years ago, including hunting/trapping for their fur and water pollution. Because river otters have a low tolerance for water pollution, they are considered an indicator species for a healthy environment and will often leave areas with poor water quality or with habitat destruction. Due to conservation efforts and the ban on trapping them on Long Island, scientists and researchers have discovered that the river otter is starting to make a come back on Long Island. To do your part in helping river otters, make sure to recycle, don’t litter or dump liquids or materials into storm drains and do your part to keep waterways like rivers clean and healthy for wildlife like river otters!
Do you love Stark and would like to send him a gift? Check out his Amazon Wish List
