The Road to RecoveryOnce thought to be gone from South Dakota, river otters have now been spotted in many streams and waterbodies across the state; a result of successful reintroduction efforts by the Santee Sioux in the 1990s. Yet, we still know little about their populations and habitat needs. Such information is critical for ensuring their recovery continues.
We are taking steps and working to learn where these fascinating animals occur in our state and what exactly makes good river otter habitat in South Dakota. |
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Where are the otters? |
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South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks began opportunistically recording river otter sightings and sign dating back to 1979. These reports were ranked by certainty of observation.
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Verified reports are captured otters or confirmed evidence that proves report was an otter. Probable reports are sightings not accompanied by a photo and only if the observer is experienced and knowledgeable.
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Have you seen an otter?
Please create an account with iNaturalist and report any sightings there! We welcome any photos or videos to be shared with us via email, as well.
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