Sea Otters

21 May 2024

Context

A new study has shed light on the usage of tools by marine mammals such as sea otters. 

Otters, Especially Females, Use Tools To Survive a Changing World

  • There are other animals who use different techniques to feed and  Survive.
  • Chimpanzees: Use stones to crack nuts and sticks to get termites.
  • Dolphins: Use sponges to protect their beaks while foraging.
  • Galapagos Islands Finch: Uses cactus spines to dig grubs out of holes.

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About Sea Otters

Sea Otters

  • Scientific name:  Enhydra lutris
  • These are intelligent mammals.
  • Otters are not just strong swimmers, they are resourceful problem solvers. 
    • They can utilize objects in their environment, including human trash, to access food.
    • These marine mammals use rocks and other objects to break open hard prey. 
    • This behavior helps them access food that would be difficult to eat otherwise. 
  • Conservation Status:
    • The U.S. Endangered Species Act lists the California sea otter as “threatened” 
    • IUCN lists most otter species as “endangered” or “vulnerable”.
  • Legal Protection: 
    • International treaties like CITES and the International Fur Seal Treaty regulate trade and hunting to protect otters.
    • The Marine Mammal Protection Act protects otters from harm and harassment in U.S. waters.
    • Zoological parks play a role in raising awareness, rehabilitation, and research for otters.
  • Feeding Behavior
    • Floating Feeding Position: Otters float on their backs while feeding.
    • Tools Used: Rocks, shells, discarded bottles.
    • Methods: Use tools as hammers or anvils to smash open hard-shelled prey; also bash prey onto docks and boats.
    • Common Prey: Sea urchins, abalone, crabs, mussels, clams, snails, fat innkeeper worms.

Benefits of Tool Use

  • Access to Larger Prey: Using tools allows otters to eat certain larger prey that would otherwise be inaccessible.
  • Reduced Tooth Damage: Tool use reduces the amount of direct biting on hard shells, thus protecting their teeth from damage.
  • Survival technique: Tools are Essential for survival in environments with limited resources.

Main threats to Sea Otters

  • Disease
    • Parasitic Infections: Intestinal worms and other parasites contribute to significant otter mortality.
    • Infectious Diseases: Protozoal diseases are especially lethal for marine mammals.
  • Oil Spills
    • Major Threat: Oil contamination poses the greatest threat to sea otters.
    • Effects of Oil: Oil disrupts the insulating properties of their fur, causing hypothermia, and leads to ingestion or inhalation of toxic substances.
    • Prevention: Preventing oil spills is essential to protect sea otters.
  • Habitat Loss
    • Kelp Forests: The loss of kelp forests impacts sea otters by reducing their shelter and food sources.
  • Pollution
    • Pathogens and Contaminants: High levels of pollution in coastal waters expose otters to infectious diseases.
  • Human Activities
    • Direct Conflicts: Sea otters face threats from human activities such as shootings, entanglements in fishing gear, and boat strikes.

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Must Read
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Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
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हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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