NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – They used to be found in rivers across New Mexico, but for years they've been mostly absent. Now, the state believes restoration efforts are helping otters make a comeback in the state. “Like many species, they were eventually extirpated from their native range in New Mexico likely as a result of over-harvesting,” said Executive Director Jesse Deubel, New Mexico Wildlife Federation. Story continues below Investigation: Suspect terrorizing Nob Hill businesses off the streets, but for how long? Community: Does New Mexico have crows or ravens? Trending: Investigation underway after evidence of 10 to 20 human skulls found at southeastern New Mexico property News: New SNAP work requirements being implemented in New Mexico Although they don't know just how many were in the state, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish said in the early 1900s most of the state's river otters were lost due to unregulated trapping and habitat loss. “In 2008 to 2010, the department released 33 otters, and those reintroduction efforts took otters from Washington and brought them into the upper Rio Grande,” said Carnivore and Small Mammal Program Manager for the New Mexico Dept. of Game and Fish Nick Forman. A 2018 study showed the population grew from 33 to 100 river otters statewide. More recently, the department released nine otters from Louisiana which they hope will bring genetic diversity to the current population and help the species make a comeback. “They provide that ecosystem service of being a top predator. To have them back on the landscape after being gone for so long, it’s really bringing back that native part of the landscape," said Forman. Now after those restoration efforts with the Department of Game and Fish and other agencies, researchers said the weasel's territory is growing. There've been sightings in waterways around Taos, Angel Fire, Corrales, Pilar, and more. “It's good to have this species back in the role it's always played in our rivers and lakes,” said Forman. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is asking the public to send them pictures and videos if they see an otter in the wild.