Sometimes a Sea Otter Just Needs a Break on the Beach

Photo by Samantha Hamilton via Be Sea Otter Savvy, which writes:

Hauling out is a term used for when a sea otter comes ashore and rests on land. This could be on the beach, on an outcrop of intertidal rocks, or in pickle weed like this male sea otter in Elkhorn Slough. In precolonial era it'd be common to see sea otters hauled out, reducing heat loss. But, the sea otter population was decimated during the Maritime Fur Trade. As the population recovers, we continue to learn how sea otters interact with their coastal community and habitat. Since CA's coasts are densely populated with people, safe haul out spots are scarce.

To observe this sea otter in the pickle weed of Elkhorn Slough is beautiful, & a reminder that marine protected areas provide critical habitats. Remember, never approach a sea otter, keep your distance (greater than 60ft), and note that sea otters on land may be more sensitive to your presence as they may feel more vulnerable.