Sea Otters

 

sea otter
two sea otters

The Sea Otter is the reason why the Russians came to Sitka. The otter were hunted to near extinction for their dense fur.

sea otter
sea otter
sea otter

Sea Otters may cling to kelp when at rest. They are usually on their back. We will approach with extreme caution and quiet. The best photo opportunities are with a telephoto lens.

sea otter on back
Otters can dive to the bottom to pick up a clam and a rock. They hold the shell on their chest and use the rock to tap it open.