The story of sea otters and the kelp ecosystem is complex. Explore the history, culture, and science surrounding this iconic species.
Fur Trade History
During the peak of the fur trade, the sea otter was the most valued and sought after pelt in the world – a demand that led to its disappearance in Oregon and near-extinction across its range.
Sea otters disappeared along the Oregon coast over a century ago, however several recovered populations and subspecies exist across the pacific region.