New data show a slight increase in the number of threatened California sea otters swimming in coastal waters, a comeback made more difficult because of a recent uptick in shark attacks.
A group of scientists are keeping a close eye at the health of sea otters off the California coast. They may be cute and furry, but California sea otters are facing a mystery threat.
California sea otters have begun losing ground in their struggle to survive. Many are mysteriously falling victim to a ruthless killer: The great white shark.
A central coast legislator is introducing a bill that would help protect threatened sea otters by keeping a voluntary contribution check box on state income tax forms.
The agency reported about 304 carcasses found last year in California, up from 232 dead otters in 2009.
A record number of shark-bitten sea otters have been reported along the California coastline in the past couple of months, prompting state officials to warn of a potentially increased threat to humans.