Why Sea Otters Matter?

One of the main reasons I started this business is to raise some money to donate to sea otter conservation nonprofits / programs.

The sea otter is a smallest marine mammal that once thrived in the North Pacific, from the northern Japan, Krill islands, Aleutian archipelago, Alaska, throughout  the west coast of the North America down to Baja California. They were hunted to near extinction for their luxury fur by early 20th century when the remaining population were just 1000 - 2000 individuals. 

With international protection they are coming back their pre-fur trade range, but the recovery is very slow, and they are listed threatened / endangered on the IUCN red list as they are still considered vulnerable to various risks such as major oil spills, climate changes, toxic algae, parasites, human disturbance and so on. There are many federal / state agencies, nonprofits and organizations work hard together to study sea otters and take actions to help recover them to their historic range.

As you may already know, the sea otter is indisputably cute.. But it is not  the only reason we have to protect the fluffiest animal on the earth.

Sea otters are an important species in marine ecosystems, and there are several reasons why it's crucial to protect them:

1. Ecosystem Balance
   Sea otters play a crucial role in maintaining the health and balance of nearshore ecosystems. They are considered a keystone species because they have a disproportionate impact on their environment compared to their abundance. Sea otters help control populations of sea urchins, which in turn prevents overgrazing of kelp forests. Kelp forests are vital habitats for numerous marine species, providing food and shelter for various organisms. Without sea otters, unchecked sea urchin populations can devastate kelp forests, leading to a cascade of negative effects on the entire ecosystem.
   
   
2. Biodiversity
   By preserving sea otters, we contribute to the overall biodiversity of marine ecosystems. Healthy ecosystems are more resilient to environmental changes and provide numerous benefits, including food resources, recreational opportunities, and economic value through tourism and fisheries. Protecting sea otters helps maintain this biodiversity by ensuring the survival of not only the otters themselves but also the myriad of species that depend on healthy coastal habitats.
   
   
3. Economic Value
   Sea otters can have significant economic value through ecotourism and the services they provide to commercial fisheries. Many coastal communities benefit from tourism related to viewing and learning about sea otters in their natural habitat. Additionally, by controlling sea urchin populations, sea otters indirectly support commercial fisheries by helping to maintain healthy kelp forests that serve as important nursery grounds and habitats for various fish species. Protecting sea otters can thus have positive economic implications for both local communities and larger industries dependent on marine resources.
   
   
4. Cultural Value
   Sea otters hold significant cultural meaning for many indigenous peoples, particularly those who inhabit coastal regions where sea otters are found.
   They are revered as symbols of spirituality and wisdom, often featured in creation stories and traditional ceremonies. Historically, sea otters provided food, clothing, and tools, and hunting them was integral to traditional subsistence practices. Sea otters are frequently depicted in indigenous art, symbolizing strength, resilience, and harmony with nature. They are part of the cultural heritage and identity of many indigenous communities, featured in stories, songs, and oral traditions.

Overall, protecting sea otters is not only essential for their survival as a species but also for the health and sustainability of marine ecosystems, and the economic well-being and culture of coastal communities.