A river otter that attacked someone at a marina dock in Washington state has been trapped and euthanized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services. The animal’s body will undergo testing for rabies at the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Lab following the incident, which occurred last Thursday morning.
According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), the otter pulled the person underwater while people were walking on the dock at Bremerton Marina. The otter continued its aggressive behavior as a woman struggled to rescue the person from the water, resulting in the mother being bitten on the arm during the ordeal. Wildlife officials noted that the otter may have been acting in defense of its territory or family, as river otters can be protective of their habitats.
The person sustained multiple injuries, including scratches and bites on the head, face, and legs, and was promptly treated at a local hospital. Fortunately, both the people are expected to recover from the incident. The otter may have been protecting it’s young in it’s habitat.
River otters are a common sight in Washington state, inhabiting a variety of environments, including fresh, brackish, and saltwater habitats. Although encounters with otters are generally rare, the WDFW warns that these animals can exhibit territorial behavior, particularly when food resources are limited.
The agency emphasizes the importance of educating the public about wildlife behavior and safety measures to avoid such encounters. As investigations continue, wildlife officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and respectful of local wildlife, particularly in habitats where animals may feel threatened.
