River otter drags child off dock and underwater in rare attack

In a rare and alarming incident, a river otter attacked a child at the Bremerton Marina in Kitsap County, Washington, on September 12, 2024. This unusual encounter has drawn significant attention due to the typically playful and non-aggressive nature of river otters. The attack occurred around 9:30 a.m. while the child and their mother were walking along the dock. Suddenly, a river otter lunged at the child, pulling them off the dock and into the water. The child was submerged briefly before resurfacing, at which point the mother managed to pull them out of the water. However, the otter continued its aggressive behavior, biting the mother's arm as she rescued her child.

Both the child and the mother sustained injuries from the attack. The child suffered scratches and bites on the head, face, and legs, while the mother was bitten on the arm. They were both treated for their injuries at a hospital in Silverdale, Washington. Fortunately, the injuries were described as minor, largely due to the mother's quick response and the child's resilience. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) commended the mother's swift actions and expressed gratitude to the Port of Bremerton for their prompt coordination and communication with marina tenants.

The otter involved in the attack was captured at the scene and sent to the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Lab for evaluation and rabies testing. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services has also been involved in efforts to trap and humanely euthanize river otters at the marina to prevent further incidents. This measure underscores the unpredictable nature of wildlife, even those perceived as endearing like river otters.

River otter attacks on humans are exceedingly rare. In Washington state, there have been only six recorded incidents involving human interactions with river otters over the past decade. These incidents are typically attributed to territorial behavior or the protection of young otters. Despite their playful reputation, river otters are wild animals equipped with strong teeth and a potent bite. The U.S. Department of the Interior advises maintaining a safe distance of at least 60 feet from otters to avoid potential aggression.

This incident in Washington is not an isolated case of otter aggression. In recent years, there have been reports of otter attacks in other states, including California and Montana. In one notable case, three women were attacked by an otter while floating on the Jefferson River in Montana, resulting in serious injuries for one of them. These occurrences highlight the need for caution and awareness when in proximity to otters, particularly in their natural habitats.

River otters are the largest members of the weasel family, known for their excellent swimming abilities and playful antics. They inhabit a variety of environments, including freshwater, brackish, and saltwater areas. While they primarily feed on fish, crayfish, and other aquatic organisms, otters can become aggressive if they feel threatened or if their territory is encroached upon.

The recent attack at Bremerton Marina serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife and the importance of respecting their space. Wildlife officials continue to monitor the situation and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of both humans and otters. As these animals are an integral part of the ecosystem, efforts are also being made to balance their protection with public safety.