Where to see Sea Otters in the UK

The sea otter is a charming marine mammal belonging to the Mustelidae family, which also includes weasels and badgers. These playful creatures are typically found along the coastal waters of the North Pacific Ocean, especially near kelp forests, where they can often be seen floating on their backs. Sea otters primarily feed on a diet of sea urchins, crabs, clams, and fish, using their dexterous paws to crack open hard-shelled prey.

Currently, sea otters are classified as near threatened due to habitat loss, oil spills, and environmental changes that impact their food sources. One fascinating fact about sea otters is that they have the densest fur of any animal, with up to a million hair follicles per square inch, which helps keep them warm in cold waters. Families in the UK can observe sea otters at various zoos and wildlife parks, providing a wonderful opportunity to learn about their conservation.