Wildlife Spotting on the Chassahowitzka River – Otters!
Florida is well known for its huge diversity of wildlife and unique ecosystems, so if you are planning a trip to the Nature Coast but don’t know where to start with wildlife viewing, look no further! Taking a tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking – The Chaz not only gives you the opportunity to see all kinds of wildlife in a beautiful setting of mangroves and clear springs, but we are excited to say that we have made an adorable discovery! Otters have made their home at the Chassahowitzka River!
What Exactly Are Otters?
Many know and love the sweet furry faces of river otters, but how much do you know about them? On our expertly guided eco-tours at Get Up and Go Kayaking, you will have the opportunity to learn more about these adorable critters, but here’s a quick introduction!
Did you know that there are actually 14 species of otters around the world? Here in Florida, we are proud to be the home of one of those species–the North American river otter (Lontra canadensis)! However, this species can be found as far north as Canada and as far south as Mexico. Anywhere that has water near forests and plenty of food is a potential place for otters to call home!
So what are otters? Are they big rodents? Not quite! They belong to the carnivorous mustelid family, which includes species like weasels, ferrets, badgers, wolverines, etc. They are also semi-aquatic, meaning that they live partially on land and in the water. Equipped with thick, warm fur, webbed paws, and a strong muscular tail they are ready to swim in all kinds of water.
They tend to be solitary or live as pairs, but they are very social and often interact within larger groups. This is where we get to see their wonderful, playful displays!
How Can I See Them?!
Otters are rather slippery critters and easy to miss! That’s why it’s a great idea to go on one of our clear kayaking tours, which gives your everything you could need for otter spotting. Not only do you get to paddle in a unique, 100% see-through kayak, but you will also be accompanied by one of our amazing guides. We are proud to have some of the most knowledgeable and passionate people leading our tours. They absolutely love their jobs, and they’re amazing at them! With their guidance and expertise, they’ll be able to lead you to the best places to be able to spot the otters. Not only this, but they can share more information about otters and all the other species of animals found at the Chaz.
Other Awesome Wildlife at The Chaz
While otters are incredible creatures and a special treat to see at the Chaz, they can be rather elusive! If you’re keeping a careful eye out for otters while taking a tour at the Chaz, you’ll likely spot out much more of our beloved wildlife–even if you aren’t able to find otters.
Other critters you can see at the Chaz includes a range of species of birds such as bald eagles, osprey, belted kingfishers, cormorants, anhingas, pelicans, wood storks, great blue herons, little blue herons, green herons, and more.
If you’re watching the water, which is especially easy with our 100% see-through kayaks, there is ample opportunity to see other aquatic animals as well! There are always fish swimming, including mullet, mangrove snappers, red drums, and others. With fish present, you may even see a dolphin chasing after them! There have occasionally been sightings of bull sharks coming in from the Gulf, too. If your eyes are especially sharp, you can also find crabs scuttling along the bottom of the river.
Keeping an eye on the shoreline while you’re looking for our sneaky little otters may help you spot them coming in and out of their dens, but it can also help you see some other species common at the Chaz. Lazy alligators sunbathing can be found and if you’re especially lucky you might even see a bobcat prowling around!
Take A Clear Kayaking Tour With Get Up and Go Kayaking!
Don’t wait to make a booking to come see our fuzzy friends! If you’d like to take a tour with us, you can book online for either our Manatee Tour at the Chaz during manatee season (November-March) or our Chassahowitzka River Tour (April-October). Or, give us a call any day from 8AM-5PM at (352) 676-7295. We can’t wait to see you at the Chaz and introduce you to the wonderful world of otters!
Sources
Otter, International. “About Otters.” International Otter Survival Fund, 2014, www.otter.org/otters.
Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute. “North American River Otter.”
Smithsonian’s National Zoo, 25 Apr. 2016,
nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/north-american-river-otter.