Wyoming Considers Removing River Otters from Protected Status

For over seven decades, river otters in Wyoming have enjoyed protected status, allowing their population to slowly rebound after near extinction during the fur trade era, Oil City News reports.

However, a new legislative proposal—House Bill 45—could end those protections, sparking debate among lawmakers, scientists, and residents.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Andrew Byron (R-Jackson) and co-sponsored by other Republican lawmakers, aims to remove otters from the state’s list of protected animals. Proponents argue that the reclassification would provide state wildlife managers with the flexibility to address conflicts caused by otters, particularly in areas where they compete with humans for fish or disrupt private fisheries.

Game and Fish Director Angi Bruce expressed support for the bill, explaining that while it does not establish a trapping season, it allows authorities to relocate or, if necessary, lethally manage otters deemed problematic.

“We really want to see otters repopulate to historic [levels],” Bruce said. “Having this tool allows us to help gain support for more otters.”

Dr. Merav Ben-David, a University of Wyoming professor and one of the world’s leading experts on North American river otters, opposes the bill. She presented findings from decades of research, showing that otter populations remain tenuous in many parts of the state, including the Big Horn River Basin. Surveys conducted in 2021 revealed a 75% decline in otter activity at monitored sites along the Green River compared to a decade earlier.

“River otters are slowly clawing their way back,” Ben-David said.

She emphasized that their survival depends on stable water flow, fish abundance, and low pollution levels. She advocated for non-lethal solutions, such as electric fencing, to mitigate conflicts.

Supporters of the bill argue that otters pose significant challenges to certain communities. Rep. Mike Schmid (R-La Barge), a former Game and Fish commissioner, said some landowners have stopped stocking private fish ponds due to otter predation. He and other lawmakers contend that local residents, who interact with otters regularly, may have a better understanding of the challenges than researchers conducting periodic studies.

Critics, however, caution against disregarding scientific expertise. On the House floor, Rep. Karlee Provenza (D-Laramie) highlighted the importance of relying on evidence from specialists like Ben-David.

“If the number one scientist that knows what is going on says, ‘No,’ then I would also urge you to vote no on this bill,” Provenza said.

If otters lose their protected status, they would be classified as “non-game” animals. This change would allow for their relocation or removal with proper permits. However, some fear it could undermine decades of conservation efforts.

The bill passed the House Travel, Recreation, Wildlife, and Cultural Resources Committee by an 8-2 vote, and its first floor vote also saw majority support.