I photographed this River Otter Pup at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
River Otter Feet
River Otters have unique and specialized feet that are adapted to their aquatic lifestyle. These feet play a crucial role in their ability to swim, hunt and forage for food.
Otters have webbed feet which are covered in dense fur to keep them warm in cold water. The webbed feet act like paddles, helping otters swim through the water with ease. The webbed skin between their toes helps increase surface area, providing more propulsion and aiding in their mobility underwater.
In addition to their webbed feet, river otters have sharp claws that they use to grasp and hold onto slippery fish and other prey. These claws also help them cling to rocks, vegetation and other objects in their environment.
Otters also have highly sensitive pads on their feet that they use to detect prey while foraging in murky water. These pads are covered in a thick layer of fur, which helps protect their feet from injury while also providing insulation in the cold water.
Finally, river otters have the ability to close the openings between their toes, effectively sealing off the webbed skin to reduce drag and improve their speed and maneuverability in the water. This unique adaptation makes them excellent swimmers and able to pursue prey with ease.
In conclusion, river otter feet are a remarkable example of adaptation to aquatic environments. Their webbed feet, sharp claws, sensitive pads, and the ability to close the openings between their toes, all work together to make them excellent swimmers and hunters.
Gear Used:
- Camera:Â Canon EOS R5
- Lens: RF100-500Â mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: August 18, 2022 (10:28 A. M.)
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f8.0
- Shutter speed: 1/2500
- ISO: 2500 (Auto)
- Exposure Compensation: +1/3 EV
- Focal Length: 500 mm