Guide to Wildlife Identification
What You
Should Know | Finding Wildlife
| Game or Non-Game | Techniques
| Signs | Distribution
| Warning for Hunters | Final
Quiz | Over 100 Wildlife Fact
Sheets Sea Otter(Ehydra lutris)Size:
Distribution in North America: |
 |
|
|
Pacific
coastline from Alaska to southern California.
Habitat:
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Sea coast.
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Prefers kelp beds.
Notes:
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Similar to river otter, but lives in saltwater environments.
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Fully webbed feet.
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Likes to float and swim on its back when not disturbed.
Before there were game laws or seasons, sea otters were hunted nearly to extinction because they were prized for their thick, rich fur. Almost entirely aquatic, sea otters rarely go ashore. They may take refuge on land during storms. They often bring sea urchins and other prey to the surface and float on their backs while using their chests as "tables."
Be sure to check local regulations for hunting or trapping information on this species.
