River Otter Site Survey & Monitoring Techniques

Saturday, November 24, 2018 from 9 a.m. to noon

The river otter (Lontra canadensis) was once found on most rivers, lakes, ponds and shallow estuaries (both fresh and saltwater) throughout North America. Unregulated trapping for its valuable pelt during the Fur Trade era (mid-1500s to mid 1800s) resulted in the extirpation of otters from much of its historic range, including Long Island. Since the implementation of wildlife conservation laws in the early 1900s, and the passage of water quality and habitat protection measures more recently, otters have made a remarkable comeback, including here on Long Island.

Learn about the Long Island Otter Survey and how to get involved. The program will meet at the Group For The East End office (54895 Main Road/Rte. 25, Southold), where wildlife biologist Mike Bottini will give a short presentation explaining what otter “sign” looks like and where to look for it. We will then head out into the field to visit several known otter sites in the Southold area. To register or inquire about additional information, please contact Mike Bottini at mike@peconic.org or 631-267-5228.