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Enhydra lutris
The sea otter is a marine mammal native to the coasts of the northern and eastern North Pacific Ocean. Adult sea otters weigh between 14 and 45 kg, making them the heaviest members of the weasel family, but among the smallest marine mammals. Unlike most marine mammals, the sea otter's primary form of insulation is an exceptionally thick coat of fur, the densest in the animal kingdom. Although it can walk on land, the sea otter lives mostly in the ocean.The sea otter inhabits offshore environments, where it dives to the sea floor to forage. It preys mostly on marine invertebrates such as sea urchins, various molluscs and crustaceans, and some species of fish.They use of rocks to dislodge prey and to open shells makes it one of the few mammal species to use tools. In most of its range, it is a keystone species, controlling sea urchin populations which would otherwise inflict extensive damage to kelp forest ecosystems.
Morro Bay, CA.
Spotted on Sep 23, 2014
Submitted on Jan 25, 2015
11 Comments
Photo No. 1: is a beautiful photo....
Thanks Antonio and the rest! ;-)
So cute Marta,great series,these Otters are just awesome,congrats and thanks for sharing
Thank you for the nice comments :-)
Marta, as usual, all amazing, photos and video
How adorable :)
Who could resist those whiskers?!
Thanks for liking it :-) I have more of a mom with baby coming in a few more spottings :-)
Adorable. Video is awesome. Really feel like I was there.
Thank you Bruno! This side of Morro Bay was every day a gathering point for them. I was so lucky to see them! My first time to see them in the wild :-)
Incredible