Sea otter
A species of Sea otter, Also known as Northern sea otter Scientific name : Enhydra lutris Genus : Sea otter
Sea otter, A species of Sea otter
Also known as:
Northern sea otter
Scientific name: Enhydra lutris
Genus: Sea otter
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Mike Baird , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The sea otter (Enhydra lutris) is an animal from the marten family (Mustelidae). The scientific name of the species was published by Carl Linnaeus as Mustela lutris in 1758. The species was placed in the genus Enhydra by John Fleming in 1822. In the Russian Far East, the sea otter is traditionally also known as 'Kamchatka beaver'.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Sea otter primarily sustains on a diet rich in marine invertebrates, with sea urchins being their preferred choice. Additionally, they consume mollusks, crustaceans, and a variety of fish, demonstrating remarkable dietary diversity.
Appearance
The sea otter is a medium-sized marine mammal with a streamlined body, robust muscular limbs, and webbed hind feet. Its waterproof fur is dense and typically dark brown, although shades may vary. Some individuals sport lighter undersides and chest patches. It has a blunt snout, small eyes, and prominent whiskers. Adult males are often larger, with a broader head and throat compared to the females.
Behavior
Sea otter are highly social, living and feeding in groups known as 'rafts'. This species showcases notable grooming behavior, using rocks to crack open shellfish while floating on its back. Moreover, sea otter display unique survival adaptations such as the use of their dense fur for insulation and buoyancy.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
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