Well, it is Valentine’s Day after all…and the pair of River Otters appears to be a cuddly couple, nuzzling, hugging, rolling around together. But now the romantics may want to quit reading and just watch the video, as the lovey dovey couple is probably a female and last year’s pup. Males and females don’t stick together very long after mating. Most groups of multiple otters we see are probably mom and offspring. Sorry.
But their behavior is quite interesting. You see quite a bit of preening and allopreening (mutual preening in social animals that helps maintain bonds). Otters must preen often to keep their fur waterproof. They dry it off by rolling in the snow or ice, then “comb” the fur with their claws, and rub oils from their underfur into the hairs. They are also rather vocal…”talking” with chortles, snuffles, snorts, huffs, and growls. You’ll also see them munching minnows…On this day I didn’t witness them eating any other food.
This video was shot last week on the St. Louis River only about 7 miles from my house. I cross the river every day on the way to preschool/work and there are often River Otters lounging on the ice near open leads.
6 responses to “Lovey Dovey River Otters”
Joey Halvorson
February 14th, 2012 at 13:04
So very precious. Thank you for this peek into their little lives. Interesting to see how often they have to stop their grooming or playtime to be aware of danger. We don’t often consider that with as free as our lives are.
Kathy Bury
February 14th, 2012 at 15:25
Really cute!! Thanks for sharing.
Chris Allison
February 15th, 2012 at 11:06
I really have enjoyed your website ever since Sandy Banks told me about it. I look forward to seeing “Photojournalist” every time I open my e-mail. But today’s video…WOW…it was just breathtaking! What a rush! Sandy has told me that you live in a very natural area, I guess I just didn’t believe they still existed in the Midwest. Thanks for sharing your bit of heaven with us.
Sparky Stensaas
February 16th, 2012 at 10:58
Thanks Joey, and yes, good point…Glad we don’t have to be looking over our shoulders every few seconds!
Terri rauscher
February 24th, 2012 at 11:42
Sparky, I enjoy your posts so much! Keep them coming!
corinthcorners
February 27th, 2012 at 20:05
love otters!