They are Masters of Tool Use
Sea otters are one of the few animals known to use tools in the wild. They use rocks to break open the shells of their favorite food, clams, and other shellfish. They will also use other objects as tools, such as using a piece of kelp to anchor themselves while they rest.
They Have the Densest Fur of Any Mammal
Sea otters have the densest fur of any mammal, with up to a million hairs per square inch. Their fur is incredibly important to their survival, as it provides insulation from the cold water and helps keep them warm. Unfortunately, this has also made them a target for fur hunters in the past.
They are Keystone Species
Sea otters play a critical role in their ecosystem as a keystone species. They help control the population of their favorite prey, such as sea urchins, by feeding on them. This, in turn, helps to protect the kelp forests that the sea otters live in, as the sea urchins can destroy the kelp if their population is not kept in check.
They are Social Animals
Sea otters are social animals and often live in groups called rafts. These rafts can include dozens of sea otters, and they will often hold hands while they sleep to keep from drifting apart. They also communicate with a variety of vocalizations, including chirps, whistles, and growls.
They Can Dive Deep
Sea otters are capable of diving to depths of over 300 feet, and they can hold their breath for up to five minutes. They use their powerful hind legs to swim, and their webbed feet act like flippers to help them navigate the water.
They are Endangered
Sea otters are endangered due to a combination of factors, including hunting, habitat loss, and pollution. It is estimated that there are only around 3,000 sea otters left in California, which is one of their main habitats.
In conclusion, sea otters are fascinating animals with many secrets. They are masters of tool use, have the densest fur of any mammal, are keystone species, are social animals, can dive deep, and are endangered. These secrets make them even more fascinating and important to protect. If you ever have the opportunity to see a sea otter in the wild, consider yourself lucky and remember to admire them from a distance to help protect them and their habitat.