1. Hunting in the Water:
* Diving: River otters are expert swimmers and divers, spending much of their time in the water. They can hold their breath for several minutes and dive to depths of up to 60 feet to find prey.
* Chasing: They pursue fish and other aquatic animals, often catching them with their sharp teeth and claws.
* Using Tools: Some otters have been observed using rocks to crack open shellfish or to break through ice to reach their prey.
2. Hunting on Land:
* Foraging: River otters are opportunistic feeders and will scavenge for food on land, including carrion, birds, small mammals, and even insects.
* Hunting small prey: They can catch and kill small animals like frogs, snakes, and rodents on land.
3. Diet:
River otters are carnivores and their diet primarily consists of:
* Fish: This is their most common food source, including trout, salmon, catfish, and other fish species.
* Crustaceans: Crayfish, crabs, and lobsters are also important parts of their diet.
* Amphibians: Frogs, toads, and salamanders are sometimes eaten.
* Small Mammals: Mice, rats, and other small mammals are also part of their diet.
4. Hunting Behavior:
* Solitary Hunters: River otters are typically solitary hunters, although sometimes they may hunt in pairs or small groups.
* Nocturnal Activity: They are primarily active at night and dawn when their prey is most active.
* Keen Senses: Their excellent sense of smell, hearing, and sight help them to locate prey.
In summary, river otters are highly skilled hunters with a diverse diet. They use their aquatic skills, foraging abilities, and sharp senses to find and capture their prey, ensuring their survival in a variety of environments.