You “otter” like our North American river otters just because they’re cute. Despite their doleful eyes, they’re playful critters, enjoying both land and water. Their short legs and long, narrow bodies make them streamlined swimmers, propelled by their strong tails.
Fun fact: they can stay underwater for 8 minutes and can close their nostrils when diving. Having otters in our rivers is usually a sign of good water quality. River otters are also predators that help to keep the ecosystem balanced by eating fish, frogs, crayfish, insects, and some small mammals.
Insects and animals featured in "Critter Tales" may be found around Lake Wales and in areas, such as Tiger Creek Preserve and Lake Wales Ridge National Wildlife Refuge.