Otters in Virginia
Otters are most common near lakes, rivers, and ponds. They eat whatever animals are in or around their home, from fish and frogs to insects and small mammals like mice – they’re primarily carnivorous. They are active year-round and do not hibernate. They usually travel alone or in pairs, unless they have kits under a year in age.
Otter Habitat
River otters are found just about everywhere in North America except deserts. They may be abundant in Virginia now, but they were once listed as endangered. While they can still legally be trapped for their fur, there are limits in place to prevent overharvesting. Unless your property is near a water source, you’re unlikely to encounter an otter. Some otters may settle in urban areas, provided there is a water source, such as a pond or a lake, nearby.
Otter Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Otters usually don’t pose a direct threat to people unless they or their young are threatened. However, they may cause property damage or make a mess while searching for food. They may also build dens underneath houses or outbuildings. Additionally, if you have a pond on your property, they may settle down there or steal fish from it. If you have an otter on your property, don’t approach it yourself; always call for expert wildlife removal services to make sure the job is done safely.
