Tag Archives: sea lions

Number of Dead California Sea Otters Recovered in 2011 a Record High

*Evidence Builds for White Shark Factor in Otter Mortality*

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. — The California or southern sea otter (Enhydra lutris nereis) appears to be experiencing an unprecedented increase in mortality from attacks by sharks, according to federal and state scientists. 

Since 1968, biologists and veterinarians at the U.S. Geological Survey and California Department of Fish and Game have documented and examined all reported sea otter “strandings” —  counting the number of dead, sick or injured sea otters recovered along California’s coast each year. (more…)

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