The sea otter is closely related to mink, a carnivore with established sensitivities to contaminants. High levels of other contaminants, such as PCB, are also found in sea otter tissues. The sea otter is an umbrella species. Protections given to the otter tend to 'shelter' and offer benefits to other species, habitats, and ecosystems. Sea otters have the notoriety of an 'Endangered Species'.
Sea otters have broad appeal to a worldwide audience.
Limiting offshore oil development.