Sea Otter
Enhydra lutris
- Where
- Coastal waters of Pacific Ocean (Alaska to Mexico)
- Habitat
- Kelp forests, rocky shores, and shallow coastal areas
- Diet
- Shellfish, sea urchins, crabs, and clams
- Size
- 3-4 feet long, weighing up to 90 pounds
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in wild, up to 30 years in captivity
- Conservation
- Endangered - population declined due to habitat loss, hunting, and pollution; protected by international law
Fun Facts
- Uses rocks to crack open shells - then eats the food inside!
- Holds hands with friends while sleeping to prevent drifting apart
- Has the thickest fur of any mammal - up to 1 million hairs per square inch
Learn More
Thick, warm fur for cold ocean water
Small eyes and ears, but excellent whiskers for sensing food
Powerful front paws with sharp claws for grasping and eating