Otter in the USA trained to search and find evidence

Photo: Peace River K9 Search and Rescue

When it comes to animal rescuers, most people imagine dogs. But these indispensable helpers have a serious limitation: they cannot work in water for long periods. That's why Florida's Peace River K9 Search and Rescue decided to employ a river otter for this task.

The first "graduate" was Splash — a two-year-old Asian small-clawed otter cub. This is the smallest species of otter, distinguished by its agile paws and high intelligence.

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Photo: Peace River K9 Search and Rescue

The animal was trained by 46-year-old Michael Hadsell, head of the search and rescue service, who previously worked with dogs and horses. During a flight from Los Angeles, he read an article about otters and learned that they are capable of orienting themselves underwater by smell, using their sense of smell and vibrissae, and can also hold their breath for up to five minutes. Thus, the idea of an "underwater rescuer" was born.

Initially, Michael observed the work of otter trainers and realized that the methodology largely resembled dog training. Then he began training in his own pool: he would hide an object with a specific scent, apply the same scent to a ball on the end of a stick, and give a signal.

After just four months, Splash learned to find the target without errors, but skill development continues to this day. Upon finding the source of the smell, the otter cub signals its trainers, who often dive with him.

"He swims up and starts grabbing my mask, indicating he's found something, and won't let go until I start moving forward."

The animal's main task is search and detection, rather than direct rescue, but its work is extremely important for people who have lost loved ones and are trying to find some solace.

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Photo: Peace River K9 Search and Rescue

The little rescuer helped find a weapon used in a 25-year-old murder case and detect human DNA on a clay brick at the bottom of a lake. He already has about 20 search and rescue operations to his credit.

For successfully completing a task, he receives a piece of salmon. "And it must be farmed. He doesn't eat wild salmon," Michael Hadsell joked.

The safety of the protégé remains a priority. The otter can work in both fresh and saltwater, but it is not allowed deeper than nine meters, even if the water is crystal clear. Strong currents and the risk of encountering predators, such as alligators, are also taken into account.

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Photo: Peace River K9 Search and Rescue

"Searches must meet the criteria for using an otter; otherwise, we simply won't deploy him," emphasized Michael Hadsell.

Despite his mischievous nature, the underwater assistant has become a favorite of the Peace River K9 Search and Rescue team and works alongside search and rescue dogs, including his best friend named Nova.

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