Where do river otters nest?

River otters don't build nests in the traditional sense like birds do. They don't create structures with twigs and leaves. Instead, they find dens, which are essentially sheltered spaces for resting, raising young, and escaping predators.

Here are the common types of dens river otters use:

* Undercut banks: These are natural cavities created by erosion along riverbanks.

* Hollow logs: Large, fallen logs with hollow spaces provide excellent shelter.

* Abandoned burrows: Sometimes, they use abandoned dens made by other animals like beavers or muskrats.

* Rock crevices: In areas with rocky terrain, otters can find shelter in cracks and crevices.

* Man-made structures: In some cases, they might use culverts, storm drains, or even abandoned sheds for shelter.

River otters often have multiple dens in their territory, which allows them to switch locations based on factors like weather, prey availability, or disturbance from predators. They don't typically stay in one den for long periods, moving frequently to keep their location hidden.