
Wildlife of Tennessee · Pond, Creek and Water Animals
North American River Otter in Tennessee
Can empty a stocked pond in a night, and the species is regulated. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.
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At a Glance
About the North American River Otter
Animals around ponds, creeks and shorelines flood land, burrow into banks and take fish and poultry. The right control depends on the animal and the water.
Call TWRA First
Risk: Can empty a stocked pond in a night, and the species is regulated.
Signs You Have One
How to Tell
These are the clues that point to a north american river otter.
- Fish remains and scat full of scales on banks
- Slides on muddy or snowy slopes
- Missing fish from backyard ponds
Call TWRA First
What We Do About the North American River Otter
This animal is managed by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. If it is a danger or is injured, call TWRA. We help you protect your property, pets and garden with fencing, deterrents and securing food.
Prevention
Keep Them Away
Simple steps that help for this kind of animal.
- Protect valuable trees with wire wrap
- Use culvert guards to stop beaver dams
- Fence ponds and coops against otters and mink
- Check rules before trapping or moving any animal
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More Pond, Creek and Water Animals
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Flood roads and fields and kill valuable trees.
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Humane Exclusion
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Has a strong bite and a long neck, so never lift one by the tail.
Free Tool
What Animal Is It? Identifier
Pick where it is, when you notice it and the signs you see, and get a ranked list of the likely Tennessee animals.
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Read the guideHow do I know if I have a river otter?
Common signs: fish remains and scat full of scales on banks; slides on muddy or snowy slopes; missing fish from backyard ponds.
Is a north american river otter dangerous?
Can empty a stocked pond in a night, and the species is regulated. When in doubt, keep your distance and call us.
What does Music City Wildlife do about a north american river otter?
This animal is managed by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. If it is a danger or is injured, call TWRA. We help you protect your property, pets and garden with fencing, deterrents and securing food. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.
Free Estimate
Tell Us What Is Going On
Describe what you see, hear or smell and we will get back to you quickly with a plan and a free estimate. For an animal in the house or any emergency, skip the form and call 615-357-7797 any hour.
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Music City Wildlife removes and prevents wildlife problems in homes and businesses across Nashville and Middle Tennessee, from squirrels in the attic to bats in the walls, with humane methods, careful sealing and cleanup.
- 615-357-7797
- Open 24 hours for emergencies
- Nashville, Tennessee · Servicing Middle Tennessee
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