Warning: Disturbance Caused by Otter in Santa Cruz
Authorities in Santa Cruz, California, recently issued a warning about a disruptive otter in the area. Initially, people did not take the warning seriously until a video emerged capturing the otter’s behavior. Surfers became concerned about their safety and the condition of their surfboards. The Santa Cruz Police shared a statement on July 11 via their official Facebook account, stating that there have been four incidents of otter interactions with surfers in Santa Cruz.
Efforts to Address the Issue
According to the statement, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has taken notice of the aggressive sea otter and is working with a team of experts to capture and relocate it. The statement was accompanied by images of an otter on top of a surfboard, leaving the owner puzzled and unsure of how to handle the situation. Another snapshot showed a different otter casually enjoying the weather on top of another surface. Due to their large size, beachgoers were hesitant to scare the otters away.
Past Behavior and Reasons for Aggression
It appears that this is not the first time the otter has displayed such behavior. In September 2022, it exhibited similar aggressive tendencies. Marine experts believe that otters, particularly females, can become aggressive during their hormonal periods. Additionally, human interaction, including feeding by humans, may contribute to their aggressive behavior.
Awareness Campaign and Reporting Incidents
The Santa Cruz Police has launched a small awareness campaign to educate citizens about the presence of wildlife in the region. They have placed ads urging people to remain vigilant and included the following message: “DANGER. Aggressive sea otter in this area. Enter the water at your own risk. Stay away from marine wildlife.” In case of any interactions or incidents involving sea otters, the police provided a hotline for reporting incidents to the Monterey Bay Aquarium at (831) 648-4840.
