Sea Otter Awareness Week events planned in Morro Bay
Defenders of Wildlife and partners organize annual awareness campaign
– California State Parks, in partnership with Sea Otter Savvy, will host a series of programs for Sea Otter Awareness Week from Sept. 21 to Sept. 27 in Morro Bay.
The annual event is organized by Defenders of Wildlife, Sea Otter Savvy, California State Parks, the Elakha Alliance, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. This year’s theme, “Anchored in Hope,” highlights sea otters’ resilience and their role in maintaining coastal ecosystems.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. throughout the week, State Parks staff and volunteers will be stationed at Morro Rock, a common sea otter viewing area. Visitors will be able to observe sea otters through spotting scopes and binoculars, speak with naturalists, and explore educational displays and activities.
A special presentation will take place on Friday, Sept. 26, at 1 p.m. at the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History. Gena Bentall, director and senior scientist with Sea Otter Savvy, will present Living with Sea Otters: Morro Bay’s Growing Population and Our Role in Their Future. The program will include information on local sea otter populations, research projects, and community stewardship goals, followed by a Q&A session. The event is included with museum admission.
The Museum of Natural History, located at 20 State Park Road in Morro Bay, will also offer exhibits on the region’s natural and cultural history, estuary views, and additional sea otter–themed family activities. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults and free for children 17 and under.
“Sea Otter Awareness Week is more than just watching wildlife—it’s about building a connection with an animal that nearly disappeared from the coast, and celebrating the vital role it plays in keeping coastal ecosystems healthy,” said Robyn Chase, State Park Interpreter III.
For more information, visit https://defenders.org/sea-otter-awareness-week.
