North American river otter spotted around National Mall

WASHINGTON - A North American river otter was spotted around the National Mall by members of the National Park Service.

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"Once eliminated from the area, the species is on the road to recovery," the NPS tweeted Monday. "Though they are cute & playful, you otter remember that they are wild animals and never get too close."

North American river otter spotted around National Mall

A North American river otter was spotted around the National Mall by members of the National Park Service.

National Mall NPS / @NationalMallNPS

The National Wildlife Federation says North American river otters can thrive in any water habitat – such as ponds, marshes, lakes and rivers. They can be found in much of Canada and the U.S -- expect for the Southwest.

The NWF says they were hunted and trapped extensively for their fur in the 19th and 20th centuries.

National Mall NPS / @NationalMallNPS