A Live Trapping and Handling Technique for River Otter

Capture and handling techniques developed by river otter (Lutra canadensis) trappers, were evaluated during a 3-year telemetric study in the coastal marsh of Louisiana. A modified No. 11 Victor leghold trap was found to be the most practical and efficient live trap for otters in a marsh habitat. A total of 30 otters were captured. Trap-related injuries were infrequent and not serious. Eighty-four percent of the captured otters sustained minor cuts or no injury at all. Trapped otter were handled safely and efficiently by means of a long-handled net. This handling technique was also used to handle 5 captive otter on several occasions.