JACKSON, Wyo. — Freezing water doesn’t slow down the aquatic river otters of Jackson Hole.
Buckrail photographer Nick Sulzer spent some time watching these mammals enjoy their day near the boundary of Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) on Tuesday, Dec. 7.
In the winter, otters can be seen along rivers or streams, where the flowing water doesn’t freeze over, according to GTNP.
The GTNP Foundation wrote on its website that otters use holes in the ice to move between land and water. Otters have the adaptation of an extra layer of body fat to protect them from freezing temperatures.
A couple of otters hung out along the snowy bank of Flat Creek, as they took turns taking a dip in the icy water. Their thick, protective fur helps to keep them warm. The otter is built to be a strong swimmer with short legs, webbed feet and a powerful tail.
They can swim for two to three minutes without coming up for air, according to GTNP. This underwater otter makes ripples in the creek, before peeking its mouth out to grab a breath of air.
When swimming, an otter can close its ears and nostrils and use its whiskers to search for prey. One stealth hunter caught a fish in its mouth, and proudly waddled off on the snow with its prize.
Otters are nocturnal and are best spotted in the early morning or an hour or two before sunset, the GTNP Foundation said via its website.
