Otters frolic in Ship Creek

Alaska has both river otters and sea otters. Sea otters are the ones that like to float on their backs, and river otters don't really do that. And some of these otters are living in the Anchorage city limits!

Photographer Eleanor Batchelder spotted this otter in the Ship Creek area. According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, river otters have a muscular body, powerful tail and short legs.

Danny Cazac also saw some local otters frolicking in upper Ship Creek.

The little group kept their distance, but were curious. Adult and young otters like to play with rocks and sticks, wrestle and even dunk each other.

Officials say they can even be found in some Anchorage lakes, but keep your distance! Otters can be aggressive, especially if approached by an overly curious dog. They can weigh between 15 and 35 pounds and grow up to five feet in length.

River otters are more adept at getting around on land then sea otters and have a keen sense of smell and hearing.