Habitat suitability modeling for Lontra canadensis in east Tennessee

Predictive niche modeling is an essential tool in effectively managing and conserving wildlife habitats. With environmental and landscape data, we can determine and assign priority areas for conservation efforts targeting the North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) in east Tennessee and beyond. The focus of the present study is the relationship between otters and land cover. Using citizen-science, an analysis was conducted using ArcGIS and Maxent to determine potential habitat for river otters using presence-only data. The results of this study detail a habitat suitability map for river otters in east Tennessee, indicating a strong positive correlation between mixed forest land cover and otter presence. This information can be expounded on with further field testing and utilized by state officials in managing wildlife. As river otters are indicators of stream ecosystem health, maintaining habitat that is suitable to L. canadensis would also mean providing quality habitat for many riparian species