Pennsylvania wildlife
River otter
Lontra canadensis
Playful, semi-aquatic mustelid with a streamlined body and webbed feet.
See the River otter up close
Best months
Sep · Oct · Nov
Dawn and dusk near slow-moving water; check recent reports from PA Game Commission.
Where to look
Pine Creek Gorge (Pennsylvania Grand Canyon), Tioga State ForestSusquehanna River, near Shikellamy State ParkOhiopyle State Park, Youghiogheny River
Conservation status
Reintroduced and recovering, now common in many waterways
Good to know
Where are river otters commonly seen in Pennsylvania?
They are frequently spotted along the Susquehanna River, Pine Creek, and in Ohiopyle State Park.
What is the best time of day to see river otters?
River otters are most active at dawn and dusk, but can be seen throughout the day.
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