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River Otters Roar Back: Colorado's 50-Year Reintroduction Milestone
14 Apr
Summary
- River otter surveys are ongoing throughout 2026 on major Colorado rivers.
- This project celebrates 50 years since the initial river otter reintroduction.
- River otters were eradicated by the early 1900s due to pollution and lack of wildlife laws.
Throughout 2026, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) staff and partners will conduct extensive surveys on the Yampa, Green, Colorado, and Gunnison rivers. These efforts, alongside public participation, aim to gather crucial data for future conservation work. This includes assessing suitable habitats for potential reintroduction of river otters, which were once native to the state's major rivers.
The current conservation initiatives mark the 50th anniversary of river otter reintroduction in Colorado. Historically, these animals thrived in the state's waterways until they were wiped out by the early 1900s. This decline was attributed to a lack of wildlife regulations and significant water pollution.
Between 1976 and 1991, the Colorado Division of Wildlife successfully reintroduced 120 river otters. These efforts took place at various locations, including Cheeseman Reservoir, the Gunnison River, the Piedra River, a stretch of the upper Colorado River within Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Dolores River.
