Lake Tahoe otter attack leaves swimmer with dozens of stitches, animal still at large
A Reno swim instructor, Lynnette Bellin, was attacked by a river otter during a Lake Tahoe open-water swim near Hidden Beach and the East Shore, suffering 38 stitches and requiring rabies treatment. Officials noted a growing otter population in the region and urged beachgoers to exercise caution as authorities continued to respond to the incident.
Health · 34 sources · Sep 3, 2026Read itThe journal
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About North American river otter
The North American river otter, also known as the northern river otter and river otter, is a semiaquatic mammal that is endemic to the North American continent throughout most of Canada and along the coasts of the United States and its inland waterways. An adult North American river otter can weigh between 5 and 14 kilograms (11–31 lb). The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur.
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