Otter (Sea) - Overview

Order: Carnivora

Family: Mustelidae

Species: Enhydra lutris

IUCN Red List Status: Endangered

Population Trend: decreasing

Distribution: coastal waters of California, Western Alaska, the Commander and Kurile Islands, north of Japan.

Habitat: kelp beds

Size: up to 5 feet long, including a 1 foot long tail. Weighs up to 100lb.

Gestation: 8-9 months. Sexually mature at 3 years, mating can take place all year round.

Diet: sea urchins, crabs, abalones and other shellfish, also fish and octopus.