West Virginia wildlife
River otter
Lontra canadensis
Playful and elusive, often seen in clear mountain streams
See the River otter up close
Best months
Mar · Apr · May
Best seen at dawn; check official park reports for recent sightings.
Where to look
Monongahela National Forest (mountain rivers)New River Gorge National ParkCanaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Conservation status
Stable native population, state-regulated trapping
Good to know
What do river otters eat?
Fish, crayfish, amphibians, and occasionally small mammals or birds.
Where is the best place to see them?
Monongahela National Forest's mountain rivers, especially at dawn.
Make it a trip
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