Evidence of long-term survival and reproduction by translocated River Otters, Lutra candensis
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Published source details
Serfass T.L., Brooks R.P. & Rymon L.M. (1993) Evidence of long-term survival and reproduction by translocated River Otters, Lutra candensis. The Canadian Field-Naturalist, 107, 59-63.
Published source details Serfass T.L., Brooks R.P. & Rymon L.M. (1993) Evidence of long-term survival and reproduction by translocated River Otters, Lutra candensis. The Canadian Field-Naturalist, 107, 59-63.
Actions
This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
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Translocate to re-establish or boost populations in native range Action Link |
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Translocate to re-establish or boost populations in native range
A replicated study in 1982–1991 at two riverine sites in Pennsylvania, USA (Serfass et al. 1993) found that translocated river otters Lutra canadensis released in areas with no existing otters settled and reproduced in the 6.5–8 years after release. Otter scats were widely found in both release areas, confirming continued otter presence. Two juveniles, live-trapped and released by hunters three years after translocations, provided evidence of breeding at one site. At the other site, four of seven otters killed by trappers, between three and seven years after translocations, were considered to be offspring of released animals. Twenty-two wild-caught otters (11 male, 11 female) were released in Pine Creek in 1983–1984 and four (two male, two female) were released in Kettle Creek in 1982. Follow-up monitoring of scats occurred in September–December 1990 (Pine Creek) and April 1991 (Kettle Creek). Additionally, carcasses were examined and trapping incidents reviewed.
(Summarised by: Jack Gavigan)
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