
That figure, based on counts made by the U.S. Geological Survey, represents a 3.6% drop from the 2009 estimate. More alarming, scientists say the number of otter pups has decreased by 11%.
Additionally, their geographic range -- about 200 miles from Pigeon Point to Gaviota State Park -- appears to be shrinking at both ends.
"We have seen a decrease in sea otter numbers throughout most of their range, particularly in those areas where most of their reproduction occurs, while pup counts have dropped to 2003 levels," Tim Tinker, a scientist for the USGS Western Ecological Research Center, said in a news release. READ MORE . . .
by Pete Thomas, GRINDTV.com