Animal Facts
Scientific Name
Lontra canadensis
Range
An extremely adaptable animal, otters tolerate hot and cold climates, as well as high elevations and lowland coastal waters, and can be found in rivers, lakes, ponds and marshes throughout much of North America to Canada and Alaska. They often live in the same areas as beavers. They prefer unpolluted water with a minimal human disturbance.
Location in the Zoo
John P. McGovern Children’s Zoo
Cool Animal Fact
Abandoned beaver dams are their favorite places for resting and raising their young.
How We Help Save Them
The Houston Zoo is single-use plastic straw, bag, and bottle free – preventing 400,000 pieces of single-use plastics from entering bayous, lakes, and oceans each year.
How You Can Help
Donate to help save river otters in the wild
