Southern sea otter wallpaper

Despite their cuteness, sea otters are the top predators of the nearshore kelp forest habitat. Also known as sentinels, the health of animals at the top of the food chain usually indicates the health of their environment, too. Our research work with sea otters is showing us where they—and their kelp forest homes—are most vulnerable.

Our spirited sea otters came to us as rescued animals and are no longer able to survive in the wild. Visitors can come see our otters on exhibit as ambassadors for their species. Most of them work behind the scenes as surrogate mothers and companions to injured adults and stranded pups, which they look after until their release back to the wild.