Photographing at the Viera Wetlands, Viera, FL is a wonderful opportunity to see various birds, insects, and wildlife all year long. Though known for its varied and abundant avian population, the wildlife there can be intriguing and surprising. A trulynice surprise is to view and photographan otter.
The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also known as the northern river otter or the common otter,is a member of the weasel family, and an adultcan weigh between 11 and 31 lbs. They live inburrows close to the water’s edgethat have many tunnel openings, one of which allows the otter to enter and exit the body of water. Female otters give birth to between one and six young in these underground burrows, and have easy access to bring the babies from the water andonto land.
The river otter can walk, run, bound or slide on land, then slip silently backinto the water barely leaving a ripple. Their favored food is fish, and their sensitive whiskers allows it to detect prey in murky water. Otters also dine on various amphibians, crayfish and turtles, and occasionally small mammals. This semi-aquatic mammal is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur, drying themselves and maintaining the quality of their fur by frequently rubbing and rolling on grass andbare land.
This otter enjoys a Conservation status of “least concern”and can be found year-round inwaterways throughout the United States and Canada.
Lauri Griffin
Lauri Griffin, a native Floridian and resident of Merritt Island, FL, has been keen on photography since high school, with every photographic subject given equal merit. Over the past dozen years or so her interest has been focused on avian photography, and shore birds in particular. Her education and love of photography has resulted in published photography articles accompanied by related photos. Lauri is currently using the Canon 7D, and is enjoying her photography now more than ever. She normally does not use a tripod, preferring instead to hand-hold her equipment in preparation for photographic opportunities. Lauri’s philosophy is straightforward and mirrors that of Dewitt Jones, a respected author and professional photographer: You get better a lot faster by focusing on improving your photography, rather than proving what a great photographer you are. Lauri has donated photos to various Audubon Societies in Florida for their use, and frequently donates photography services to the Coastal Boxer Rescue Society. She uses Smugmug.com for viewing: website laurigriffinphotography.smugmug.com, and parties interested in purchasing an image(s) may contact her at [email protected]. PUBLICATIONS Include: Nature Photographer Magazine Exposure Gallery Magazine Birds and Bloom Magazine BirdWatching Photo of the Week Website
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