![Photo by DON BARTLING
A long, strong tail helps propel the otter through water. They can stay underwater for eight minutes.](https://hagadone.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/ARTICLE_190719947_EP_-1_XSCBAYRMNTTA_t1170.jpg?5cc718665ab672dba93d511ab4c682bb370e5f86)
Photo by DON BARTLING
A long, strong tail helps propel the otter through water. They can stay underwater for eight minutes.
July 18, 2019
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![River otters: Well adapted for semi-aquatic living in North Idaho](
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July 18, 2019 1 a.m.
River otters: Well adapted for semi-aquatic living in North Idaho
Recently I was traveling along Myrtle Creek on the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge loop road, when I was surprised by an adult otter swimming in the water below me.