Definition

Noun: * A sociable, semi-aquatic mammal (Lontra canadensis) with a long, streamlined body, webbed feet, and dense fur, commonly found in freshwater habitats like streams, rivers, and lakes across North America.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • We were lucky to spot a river otter sliding down the muddy bank into the water.
  • The health of the river otter population is a good indicator of clean water and a balanced ecosystem.
  • River otters are known for their playful behavior, often seen wrestling with each other or sliding on snow or mud.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used specifically to distinguish this North American species from other otter species, such as the sea otter or the Eurasian otter.
• In conservation biology, the presence of river otters is frequently cited as a sign of a thriving, unpolluted aquatic environment.

Variants and Related Words

• Otter (n): The general term for members of the subfamily Lutrinae, which includes the river otter, sea otter, and others.
• North American river otter (n): The full common name for .

Synonyms

• North American otter
• Common otter (though this can also refer to the Eurasian species)

Related Phrases and Collocations

• Otter family: A group of otters, which can also be called a "romp" or a "bevy."
• Otter habitat: The streams, rivers, lakes, and marshes where otters live.
• Otter conservation: Efforts to protect otter populations and their environments.

Noun

1. sociable aquatic animal widely distributed along streams and lake borders in North America