<Tr> <Td_colspan="2"> <P> Lutra canadensis </P> </Td> </Tr> <P> The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also known as the northern river otter or the common otter, is a semiaquatic mammal endemic to the North American continent found in and along its waterways and coasts . An adult North American river otter can weigh between 5.0 and 14 kg (11.0 and 30.9 lb). The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water - repellent coat of fur . </P> <P> The North American river otter, a member of the subfamily Lutrinae in the weasel family (Mustelidae), is equally versatile in the water and on land . It establishes a burrow close to the water's edge in river, lake, swamp, coastal shoreline, tidal flat, or estuary ecosystems . The den typically has many tunnel openings, one of which generally allows the otter to enter and exit the body of water . Female North American river otters give birth in these underground burrows, producing litters of one to six young . </P> <P> North American river otters, like most predators, prey upon the most readily accessible species . Fish is a favored food among the otters, but they also consume various amphibians (such as salamanders and frogs), freshwater clams, mussels, snails, small turtles and crayfish . The most common fish consumed are perch, suckers, and catfish . Instances of North American river otters eating small mammals, such as mice and squirrels, and occasionally birds have been reported as well . There have also been some reports of river otters attacking and even drowning dogs . </P>

What kind of habitat do river otters live in