River Otters Return to Central Texas Rivers

0:00River otters are making a splash back in central Texas rivers, folks. The San Antonio River Authority first spotted one in the city's upper watershed back in March of last year. They've popped up in spots like the San Marcos River near Goliad by the coast and even close to Waco in a real estate agent's video from January. These sleek swimmers used to be common here but got pushed out by trapping and lost habitats long ago. Now, with better food sources like fish and crayfish, plus solid river homes, they're expanding their turf. Experts say it's a mix of otters getting crowded out elsewhere and just thriving in healthier waters. Locals are buzzing with sightings, though some mix them up with beavers or those pesky nutrient invaders. No worries though, otters are native to Texas, shy around us humans and pack claws and teeth have needed. Their comeback screams good news for river ecosystems strong enough to feed top predators like them. Recent tips point to possible otters in Wilson County, South East of San Antonio, but

1:01nothing confirmed yet. The authorities hyped, seeing it as proof the waterways are bouncing back. To keep the vibe going, their eyeing fixes at the Otila Dam in True Heart Ranch Nature Park. Maybe retrofit or remove it soon for smoother otter, travel. Stream restoration projects will boost their numbers while we all share these revitalized rivers. That wraps El Paso news today, brought to you with AI, I'm Corey with the story.