Episode 15: Saving the Sea Otters

Did you know that sea otters were almost hunted to extinction for their fur? In this Episode of H2O and Beyond, I'm joined by Mr. Ian Giancarlo from Environment Oregon to discuss the importance of Sea Otters in the ecosystem! We'll talk about the history of sea otters, the exact role they play in maintaining kelp forests, what threats they face today, and future plans to help stabilize their populations. We'll even share some fun facts about sea otters that may surprise you! Did you know that sea otters have the densest fur out of any mammal on earth?0:00 Intro4:38 What are Sea Otters?7:36 What is a keystone species? 8:40 Why were they almost hunted to extinction?10:21 Failed reintroduction of sea otters13:10 Historical attempts to help save sea otters14:35 What happens to an ecosystem without otters?18:49 Kelp Forests for oxygen production 22:15 How else do otters contribute to the ecosystem?25:12 Biggest challenges otters face in today's world29:48 Orcas eating sea otters32:42 What's being done today to save the otters?42:20 Closing Remarks🎧 Listen to more episodes & follow us here: https://linktr.ee/h2oandbeyondFeedback Form: https://forms.gle/RNjdFLY2wSrk7PW2AFollow the Environment Oregon Socials!Instagram :@environmentoregonFacebook: @enviroregonX: @enviroregonIf you liked this episode, please Like and Subscribe!