The successful reintroduction of river otters in Nebraska led to the removal of river otters from the state threatened list in 2020 and the implementation of a regulated harvest season on river otters in 2021.
Although river otters have recolonized much of their previous range, the restoration of genetic diversity of river otters is dependent on the genetic diversity of translocated individuals (founders) and their reproductive success.
Goals
As part of NGPC management goal to maintain resilient, healthy, and socially acceptable river otter populations, our aim is to evaluate genetic variability to infer population health of river otters in Nebraska.
Current Status
River otters were once common in Nebraska, occupying major rivers throughout the state, though were extirpated by the early-1900s. Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) began a reintroduction effort of river otters in 1986 and they have recolonized much of their historical distribution. Each of the reintroduction sites in Nebraska are somewhat isolated geographically and used similarly small releases (20-30 otters). Populations have expanded since, but the degree of connectivity is unknown. As part of NGPC management goal to maintain resilient, healthy, and socially acceptable river otter populations, our aim is to evaluate genetic variability to infer population health of river otters in Nebraska.
River Otter
Graduate Student
- Megan Cary, M.S.
Principle Investigator
- Sarah Sonsthagen
Project Duration
May 2025 – August 2028
Funding
- Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Project Location
- Nebraska
