Tag: marine mammal

Sea otter effects on Washington nearshore marine environment

Sea otter effects on Washington’s nearshore ecosystems – a new thinking

Our funding award to Seattle Aquarium and Zachary Randell The Seattle Aquarium was successfully awarded a funding grant to purchase a remotely operated vehicle, ROV and its accompanying equipment, during the 2020 grant cycle.  We are proud and excited to have assisted them in the initial stages of this research to investigate the possibility that sea otters can assist the resilience of marine ecosystems, especially those along the outer coast of Washington. Sea otter effects on Washington’s nearshore ecosystems – a new thinking The…

Sea Otter Awareness Week – Perspectives of an endearing animal

Introduction In preparation for Sea Otter Awareness Week, sea otter enthusiast, Cory Dalton, offered to share his reasons for being so fascinated with the genus Enhydra, including all three subspecies of sea otter that exist today. Cory shares his thoughts concerning their uniqueness in the animal kingdom, their importance within ocean ecology and shares several excerpts from his favorite authors who know and have experienced these animals up close. For things that are more subjective, he emphasizes when things are only his opinion. Ideally,…

sea otter with clam floating on back

World Oceans Day is June 8

Of course, we all know sea otters are cute; and who hasn't enjoyed the many online videos of their playful antics frolicking on the ocean waves, cracking open a clam with the help of a rock, or simply taking a much-deserved rest tied off in some kelp? But did you know that they play a vital role in the health of our oceans and, ultimately, the earth? Sea otters are a keystone species for their kelp forest home helping to control sea urchin populations…