Enhydra lutris

Enhydra lutris, commonly known as the sea otter, is a marine mammal found along the Pacific coasts of North America. They are known for their dense fur, which keeps them warm in cold waters, and their playful behavior. Sea otters are excellent swimmers that spend most of their time in the water, where they feed mainly on sea urchins, crabs, and mollusks. Their presence helps maintain healthy marine ecosystems by controlling prey populations. These social animals often rest together in groups called rafts, floating on the water's surface. They are considered a keystone species because of their vital ecological role.