In recent weeks, a unique and concerning phenomenon has been observed along the California coast, as a southern sea otter named 841 has been making headlines for her interactions with surfers. Mark Woodward, a renowned photographer who goes by Native Santa Cruz on social media platforms, has been documenting these encounters through captivating photos and videos, which have garnered significant attention.
However, authorities and experts are expressing growing concerns about the otter’s behavior. In one video shared by Woodward, the otter can be seen persistently gnawing on a surfboard, causing a surfer to retreat from the water. This unusual and potentially dangerous behavior has raised alarm bells among wildlife authorities and conservationists.
The otter, who was born in captivity and released into the wild when deemed old enough, has been involved in multiple incidents. As a result, wildlife authorities, in collaboration with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, are working diligently to locate, capture, and relocate her to ensure the safety of both humans and the otter.
While the exact cause of the otter’s aggressive tendencies remains unclear, experts suggest that hormonal surges or human feeding could potentially be contributing factors. However, further examination and research are necessary to understand the underlying reasons behind this behavior.
This may seem cute but it’s not, this sea otter was very aggressive and the surfer actually abandoned his board and swam to shore. I believe this is the same otter as in my previous photos, though I understand there was a second otter on the board at first 1/2 pic.twitter.com/VtCeOVQ9tm
— Native Santa Cruz (@NativeSantaCruz) July 9, 2023
The federal and state departments of Fish and Wildlife have urged individuals engaging in recreational activities in the area, such as kayaking and surfing, to exercise caution and avoid approaching the otter or encouraging any interactions. They emphasize that despite no reported injuries thus far, the otter’s behavior is highly unusual and poses risks to both people and the animal.
Southern sea otters, once widespread along the North American coast from Alaska to Baja California, were driven to the brink of extinction due to the fur trade. Today, the threatened species is limited to California’s central coast, occupying only 13% of its historic range. These small marine mammals, measuring up to 4 feet long and weighing around 70 pounds, play a crucial role in the coastal ecosystem by maintaining a balance in sea urchin populations and protecting kelp forests.
In light of the escalating situation, authorities are committed to ensuring the otter’s well-being by capturing and finding her a suitable long-term home at a rescue sanctuary, should all other options be exhausted.
