A California sea otter notorious for snatching surfboards is now considered a risk to both herself and humans, prompting wildlife officials to search for her. Identified as Otter 841, this bold female otter first began interacting with surfers, kayakers, and paddleboarders off the coast of Santa Cruz in 2021. Over time, her behavior has become increasingly aggressive.
In a video captured last year, Otter 841 can be seen climbing onto a surfboard in the water and aggressively chasing a surfer who attempts to retrieve his board. She even caused damage by tearing off chunks of the board. According to The New York Times, this past weekend, Otter 841 was spotted stealing surfboards on three separate occasions.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has announced plans to capture and relocate the otter with the assistance of a team of experts from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Monterey Bay Aquarium. The team is currently monitoring Otter 841 and will attempt to capture her when the conditions are favorable in the coming days. It is important to note that the otter is fitted with a radio transmitter for tracking purposes.
While Otter 841’s repeated aggressive behavior necessitates her captivity, it is essential to emphasize that euthanasia is not being considered as an option. Ashley McConnell, a spokesperson for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, stated that the otter’s capture aims to ensure her safety and well-being. The cause of her thievery remains unclear, though it is suggested that hormonal changes or human interaction, such as feeding, may contribute to such behavior.
Kevin Connor, spokesperson for the Monterey Bay Aquarium, acknowledges the amusement surrounding Otter 841’s surfboard-stealing escapades. However, he emphasizes the potential dangers if her behavior escalates further. The incidents involving Otter 841 and her mother, known as Otter 723, highlight the importance of maintaining a respectful distance from wildlife and refraining from feeding them. The Monterey Bay Aquarium takes great care to prevent their otters from associating humans with positive experiences during the rehabilitation process.
Ensuring the well-being of sea otters extends beyond their individual protection. These creatures play a vital role in maintaining the health and balance of ocean and coastal ecosystems as top predators. Respecting their space is crucial not only for their survival but also for the overall functionality of these habitats.
If captured, Otter 841 will undergo a health assessment at the Monterey Bay Aquarium before being relocated to an Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited facility. As for her mother, she currently resides at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California, enjoying her well-deserved retirement under the name Millie.
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