The sea otter (Enhydra lutris) is a marine mammal native to the coasts of the northern and eastern North Pacific Ocean. It has a thick, insulating fur, which is the densest of any animal. Sea otters are known for their playful behavior and use of tools, such as rocks, to crack open shellfish.

The sea otter (Enhydra lutris) is native to the coastal regions of the northern and eastern North Pacific Ocean. Its range includes the coasts of the United States, particularly Alaska and California, and extends to Canada, Russia, and Japan. Historically, their range was broader, but due to past hunting pressures, the current distribution is more fragmented.

Sea otters primarily inhabit nearshore environments where they can find abundant resources and protection. These areas include rocky coastlines, kelp forests, and estuaries. The climate in these regions is typically mild, with cool waters that are rich in marine life. Sea otters are known to prefer waters less than 40 meters deep, as they are adept divers.

Sea otters play a crucial ecological role as a keystone species in their habitat. They maintain the balance of the kelp forest ecosystems by preying on sea urchins, which in turn helps prevent overgrazing of kelp forests. This activity supports the biodiversity of the marine environment by maintaining the structure and health of these critical habitats.