The southern sea otter has been slow to recover from near-extinction. Population growth as been less than expected and the cause is not clear. Sea otters eat mostly abalone, sea urchins and crabs. They use tools to forage for food. Sea otters have a high metabolic rate that causes them to eat and move constantly. They groom their beautiful fur to keep it aerated and water repellent to stay warm in the cold water of the Pacific ocean where they live.

see photos and learn more at www.montereybayaquarium.org/animals/AnimalDetails.aspx