Sea Otters of Monterey Bay

We found this solitary Sea Otter busily feeding quite close to shore the other day. We have read that Sea Otters must consume large amounts of food - up to 15% of their body weight daily - in order to stay healthy. This Sea Otter was alone and very busy feeding - we concluded it was a female judging by the damage to her nose and face - typical of mating behavior where the males grab the females by the nose during mating. After observing her for several minutes, we have to conclude she is a very efficient foraging animal.
It is always fascinating to be able to closely watch the behavior of these marine mammals in their own environment - one of the benefits of living so close to Monterey Bay.

The first catch we observed by the Sea Otter was a red crab which she attacked by first removing the large claws. Note her damaged nose as well as the bite marks on her muzzle.

Here she pauses a moment after removing the large claws and all the small legs on one side.

After removing all the legs, the Otter opens the shell and consumes the interior organs. Note the empty main shell on her chest while she scoops out the inside.

Then when the red crab is gone she is down once again - this time returning with a  dark colored crab. This one is gone too in a few seconds - legs first - then body.

And finally after her feeding, she raises up for a final dive. We note the marking tags on her feet. We know the population is closely monitored by the Monterey Bay Aquarium - information on their Sea Otter activities is here. And, The Otter Project is also dedicated to protecting the California Sea Otter. Their web site information is here. 

I am sure this individual Sea Otter is well known to the organizations that track them and advocate for their recovery. She certainly seemed in good health this day.