Good quality, nearshore marine water, free of oil contaminants, is required to protect the insulation property of the fur. Optimal habitats include rocky substrates with ample interstices, where invertebrates can live out of reach of the sea otters. These areas provide a continuing source of food, as individuals move out and become available. Kelp beds also provide cover from high surf and predators. Active yearlong in circadian pattern.
Females make fewer movements than males.
However, in California, some males leave rafts of males and establish territories adjacent to, or including, rafting areas of females. No other males are allowed to rest in these territories. Females are allowed into these territories, subject to attempts at copulation. Evidence of white shark, Carcharadon carcharias, attacks on sea otters, Enhydra lutris. Estes, J. A. 1980.