Sea otters are expert divers. Reproduction Sexual maturity of female otters is reached at 3 or 4 years of age. It is unclear as to the maturity ages for males. Reproduction occurs throughout the year, but there is a peak mating season occuring in October and November, a five or six month gestation period, and then a peak birthing season in late May and June.
Studies show a slightly higher number of females than males in most populations.
Probably the most fascinating of these behaviors is maternal care of pups. They are very active animals. The most common habitats for sea otters are the famous California kelp forests. Like other predators, E. lutris dwells where its food dwells, that is, in relatively shallow coastal waters of less than 20 fathoms. Most of their time is spent on the water's surface.