Access to this video is a benefit for members through PBS Passport.
Up Next
Back to Show
Changing Seas
California Sea Otters: Life on the Edge
Season 16
Episode 1604
Adored by many for its cuddly appearance, the threatened southern sea otter is a voracious predator that needs to eat the equivalent of 25% of its body weight a day to survive. Once nearly hunted to extinction, this endearing marine weasel has made a slow comeback on California’s central coast, demonstrating its role as an ecosystem engineer in the process.
Sign up now for inspiring and thought-provoking media delivered straight to your inbox.
Support Provided By
Unlock with PBS Passport
27:01
The Cayman Islands are home to the last great reproductive population of grouper.
Unlock with PBS Passport
29:33
Scientists work to identify and link a devastating coral disease to a human pathogen.
Unlock with PBS Passport
27:16
Scientists use satellite tags and DNA forensic tools to track tiger sharks.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:47
Oceanographers continue to study the long term effects of an oil spill.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:46
A group of scientists tests sea sponges for potential anti-cancer properties.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:46
Explore the emerging science of coral reef restoration.
26:49
The invasive lionfish is a major threat to biodiversity and a stressed coral reef.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:48
Examine the important role seagrasses and mangroves play in the ocean’s web of life.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:51
Take a look at the health of the bottlenose dolphin.
Unlock with PBS Passport
26:51
The Changing Seas crew shadows a team of research divers in Dry Tortugas National Park.
26:45
Scientists develop sustainable aquaculture methods to take the pressure off wild fish.
26:46
Scientists scan the ocean floor to find deep sea corals threatened by bottom trawling.