The Pacific Coast population of the North American River Otter inhabits coastal streams, estuaries, and nearshore marine environments from Alaska to central California. These coastal otters regularly forage in kelp beds and rocky intertidal zones for fish, crabs, and rockfish. River otters are distinguished from sea otters by their smaller size, pointed tail, and ability to travel freely on land.
Best time to see a Pacific Coast River Otter
The best time to see a Pacific Coast River Otter is January–July, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 22,887 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Pacific Coast River Otter sightings near you
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