By Weston Kelly
The southern sea otter is native to the north coasts of the Pacific Ocean, especially prevalent in our own oceans. They are small, only 14 to 45 kilograms in weight, and eat marine invertebrates like crabs, clams, and mussels. Their main predators are sharks and killer whales, but are known to be eaten by eagles and coyotes. In addition to animals, they are massively threatened by oil spills and other forms of oceanic pollution which can displace, suffocate, and poison the otters. They are endangered as a result of these factors, along with their near extinction during the fur trade.
Fortunately, many conservation efforts are being made to preserve this adorable species. First of all, the species is protected by multiple laws such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act, ESA, and California state law. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, “the southern sea otter population has grown,” with population size, “fluctuating around 3,000” (USFWS). In addition to protection under law, organizations such as The Otter Project are working towards expanding the territories designated for marine animals. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, which is 276 miles long, is monitored by The Otter Project. By, “Ensuring water quality and climate resiliency through environmental monitoring, The Otter Project guarantees the Sanctuary remains pristine” (The Otter Project). With these safeguards in place, the Southern Sea Otter species is bound to rise.