River Otters Are Making a Splash in Riverview Pools as Florida’s Drought Forces Wildlife to Seek New Water Sources
As drought conditions intensify across Florida in 2025, residents of Riverview are experiencing an unexpected visitor in their backyards: North American river otters. With approximately 74% of Florida currently under drought conditions as of January 2026, these aquatic mammals are increasingly venturing into residential areas, seeking alternative water sources like swimming pools, decorative ponds, and backyard water features.
The Drought Connection: Why Otters Are Leaving Their Natural Habitats
Climate-driven changes such as drought may cause a reduction in the otter’s prey base and damage their natural habitat. River otters are most frequently sighted during dry season, which is thought to be a function of restricted water availability and aquatic mobility. As their traditional freshwater habitats shrink due to ongoing drought conditions, these intelligent mammals are adapting by exploring new territories—including suburban neighborhoods.
River otters are most common in freshwater environments such as rivers, lakes and ponds, but when these natural water sources become scarce or contaminated, they must seek alternatives. This survival instinct is driving them into residential areas where swimming pools and ornamental ponds provide the clean water they desperately need.
Recent Otter Encounters in Florida Communities
Florida homeowners have been documenting remarkable encounters with these unexpected guests. In one North Lauderdale incident, a family of three otters spent time “diving around, swimming, jumping a little bit” in a residential pool, even moving patio furniture around. Residents report seeing otters living under their decks and feeding on fish in their yards, indicating that some are establishing temporary territories in suburban areas.
These encounters aren’t isolated incidents. Many residents report seeing these mammals in their own backyards, and some locals have even seen them dashing through drains as they navigate urban environments in search of water and food sources.
Understanding River Otter Behavior and Risks
River otters can reach speeds of 8 mph underwater and 15 mph on land, and can stay underwater for up to eight minutes at a time. While they may appear playful and harmless, otters are not generally aggressive, but they will defend their territory if you get too close. Individuals who choose to encroach on a wild otter’s space are at risk for an attack, particularly when mother otters have young babies.
There have been countless stories of otters attacking dogs in nearby St. Petersburg and Lakeland, and people should not allow their pets to interact with otters or other wildlife. Recent incidents have resulted in hospitalizations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe distance from these wild animals.
Professional Wildlife Removal Solutions
When otters take up residence in your pool or pond, it’s essential to contact professional wildlife removal services rather than attempting to handle the situation yourself. For residents dealing with otter intrusions, wildlife removal Riverview specialists can provide safe and effective solutions.
Professional pest control services pride themselves on offering fast, affordable, and reliable solutions using environmentally responsible methods. Experienced companies offer comprehensive wildlife removal services, ensuring both human and animal safety during the removal process.
Prevention and Protection Strategies
Installing an electric fence or 3X3 inch mesh fencing can prevent river otters from entering ponds. Adding structures such as sunken trees or cinder blocks to stocked ponds can help fish hide from river otters and other predators. Pool owners should also consider covering their pools when not in use and removing any fish or aquatic plants that might attract hungry otters.
The Bigger Picture: Ecosystem Health Indicators
Interestingly, the presence of otters is actually a signal that the ecosystem is healthy, and if you live near a lake, pond, or river that has no otters, there is a chance that the water is polluted. River otters play an important role in Florida’s freshwater ecosystems as predators, contributing to healthy prey populations by feeding on weaker and sicker prey that is easier to catch.
As Florida continues to grapple with drought conditions in 2025, residents should expect more wildlife encounters as animals adapt to changing environmental conditions. While these encounters can be fascinating, they require professional intervention to ensure the safety of both humans and wildlife. By understanding otter behavior and working with qualified wildlife removal specialists, homeowners can address these situations effectively while respecting the important ecological role these remarkable mammals play in Florida’s ecosystem.