The state of Indiana has lacked representation of its native wildlife since its inclusion into the United States in 1816. The only animal that is used to represent the Hoosier State is the Cardinal which it shares as a state bird along with six other states.
Indiana has had an unkind relationship with its wildlife and environment. Animals such as brown bears, badgers, mountain lions, and many others used to call Indiana home, but we’re eventually driven out the area due to increased settlement and hunting in the area. One of these animals that was driven out was the native North American river otter. The fascinating animal became absent from the Hoosier State’s waters. 1995 was the year that the Indiana Department of Natural Resources began an reintroduction program with the goal of bringing back sustainable populations of river otters into the state. After five years of continued reintroductions, the river otters were able to expand through natural reproduction. In 2005, the river otter was taken off the state endangered species list.

Today the species can be found in 90% of Indiana’s counties and the population continues to expand. The success story of the river otters in Indiana highlights the ability of the Hoosier State to be able to reverse the negative effects of its environment and bring back a fascinating and loved member of its wildlife. Having the river otter become the official state mammal of Indiana will preserve this story and bring awareness to the need of protecting and preserving the environment.