A caretaker at smithsonian's national zoo explains why that's only partially true. They stay loyal to one partner during the course of their lives. African Clawless Otters Aonyx Capensis Baby Otters Otters Baby Animals They are polygamous animals, meaning they mate with more than partner throughout their lifetime. Do giant otters mate for life . A male will mate with a female and then leave to mate with others, leaving only the female to raise the young. North american river otters are found anywhere there is a permanent food supply and easy access to water. Commonly, a family unit will consist of only a mother and her young. Otters are ready to reproduce when they are from 2 to 3 years of age. Do river otters mate for life? No, otters do not mate for life: If held in captivity, an otter can reach the age of between 15 and 20 years old. Most river otter species are generally monogamous and they may even mate for life. Sea otters sea otter facts, sea otter...