Otter sparks terror as it attacks a child and drags youngster into a river

A young child was dragged off a dock and beneath the water in a rare attack by a river otter in Washinton.

The shocking event occurred on September 12 when the child was on a walk with his mother at Bremerton Marina in Kitsap County, MailOnline reports. 

The mother rushed to her son’s aid and was able to pull him out of the water amid the animal’s onslaught. The territorial animal bit the child’s arm as he was lifted from the river. It chased the pair down the dock before retreating back into the water.

The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) said the child sustained bites to his face, head, and legs. 

Following the attack, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services captured and euthanised the animal, Fox 13 Seattle reported. Its remains are being tested for rabies at the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Lab. 

The WDFW Sergeant, Ken Balazs, said: "We are grateful the victim only sustained minor injuries, due to the mother's quick actions and child's resiliency.

"We would also like to thank the Port of Bremerton for their quick coordination and communication to their marina tenants."

Only six documented river otter attacks have been recorded in the State of Washington over the past decade, says the WDFW. 

According to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, river otters can weigh up to 15 kilograms and grow to be as long as 152 centimeters. The aquatic mammals have sharp teeth and can administer powerful bites. 

Research shows that attacks from river otters are very rare, and may be caused by human encroachment upon territory. 

Like all wild animals, otters should not be approached in their natural habitats.