Sea Otter Saved in Morro Bay

Sea Otter

saved in morro bay!

by Margaret Hennessy

It looked like a strange black elongated shape on the edge of the water in Morro Bay just lying still on the sand. What was it? Luckily the beach area was empty so this poor creature was spared curious individuals walking over and taking a closer look. Then I saw the red Marine Mammal Center truck. Thank goodness! After a brief assessment of the situation they determined it was a female sea otter in distress. I watched as they worked as a well coordinated team and lifted her gently into a crate and loaded her on the back of their vehicle which looked well equipped with nets, poles, and all types of equipment to deal with situations just like this one. These rescue centers are located in Marin, Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties. The Center rescues, cares for these animals, and investigates the threats they face in the wild. I felt fortunate to see them save this amazing sea creature, and they assured me she would be fine after some TLC. If you see a sick or injured sea mammal please call their hotline: (415) 289-SEAL Visit their website: www.MarineMammalCenter.org