Sea otters capture our attention with their playful antics and adorable furry faces. However, they also pull at our hearts when we hear their numbers are declining and that they may be in serious trouble. Fortunately, the California Sea Otter Fund (a tax check off program) has been in place for the last four years, working to find solutions to their plight. This year, Assemblyman Bill Monning (D-Carmel) has introduced legislation that, if passed, will keep this donation-based program going through 2016, provided it reaches its minimum contribution goal each year.
In a recent Living on Earth radio program segment, Mark Seth Lender captures in word and on camera just how special these sea mammals are. He also emphasizes their important role in maintaining healthy Pacific kelp forests, since otters feed on kelp-grazing sea urchins and thereby keep those critters in check.
Meditate on all that is otter by listening to his story, and check out his photos and video of these amusing animals too.
You can show your support for sea otters! Visit Defenders’ site: www.saveseaotters.org to see how.
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