What Do Sea Otters Eat?

The world's smallest marine mammal has thicker fur than any other animal on Earth. Instead of having blubber, the sea otter stays warm in cold water habitats because it has more than one million insulating hairs on every square inch of its body, which keep the cold away from its skin. The sea otter also has flaps of loose skin under each forearm that it uses to store food gathered on deep-sea dives, or to stash favorite rocks used to break open tasty finds such as clams, crabs, mollusks, or other shellfish.

Otter amazement:

  • Sea otters can detect faint traces of scent, even underwater. Their sense of smell has been compared to that of a dog. They also use long whiskers to detect prey movement, even in murky water.
  • Sea otters can hold their breath for as long as five minutes during a deep sea hunt. Their lung capacity is 2.5 times greater than that of other animals their size.
  • Using their forepaws, sea otters capture prey and then use rocks or other found items as tools for cracking open shells. Their webbed feet and rudder-like tails propel them through the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary diet of sea otters?

Sea otters have a diverse diet primarily consisting of marine invertebrates such as sea urchins, abalone, mussels, clams, crabs, snails, and various types of fish. They are particularly known for their role in controlling sea urchin populations, which helps maintain the balance of kelp forest ecosystems.

How do sea otters catch their food?

Sea otters are skilled hunters, using their dexterous front paws to find and grab prey. They often use rocks as tools to crack open the hard shells of mollusks and crustaceans. This unique behavior showcases their problem-solving abilities and makes them one of the few mammal species known to use tools.

How much food do sea otters need to eat daily?

Sea otters have high metabolic rates and require a significant amount of food, consuming approximately 25% to 30% of their body weight each day. According to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a 50-pound otter would need to eat about 10-15 pounds of food daily to support its energy needs.

Do sea otters have any predators?

While sea otters are top predators in their kelp forest habitats, they do face threats from other animals. Great white sharks and orcas are known to prey on sea otters. Additionally, bald eagles have been observed preying on otter pups. Human activities also pose significant risks to sea otter populations.

How does the diet of sea otters impact their environment?

Sea otters play a crucial role in their environment by maintaining healthy kelp forests. By preying on sea urchins, they prevent overgrazing on kelp, which serves as a habitat for many marine species. This trophic cascade effect underscores the importance of sea otters in marine ecosystems and biodiversity conservation.

Are sea otters' eating habits affected by environmental changes?

Yes, environmental changes can significantly impact sea otters' eating habits. Pollution, oil spills, and changes in sea temperature can reduce the availability of their prey. Additionally, overfishing and habitat destruction can lead to food scarcity, forcing otters to adapt their diet or forage in new areas to survive.

More Info: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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