Lutra canadensis, river otter

River otters are superbly adapted for life in the water. Their sleek bodies undulate from side to side gracefully propelling them through the water. Their tails serve as a sort of rudder maneuvering their direction and course. Broad feet allow them to attain swift speed prior to the more typical glide of their foray. They dine principally on crayfish, turtles, frogs, and clams. They will occasionally consume young muskrat and beaver. They will take up residence in the abandoned lodges of muskrat and beaver or live in the hollows of the stream bank protected by exposed tree roots.