Sea otters are vanishing from our coastlines, and not because of nature.

Once hunted to near extinction for their soft, warm fur, these playful marine mammals were wiped out from much of the West Coast. But in places like Elkhorn Slough in California, a small group of sea otters is showing us what recovery looks like. Their return has helped restore underwater meadows, control invasive species, and protect our coastlines from climate change.

Now that progress is at risk.

The federal government is slashing funding for endangered species programs, leaving sea otter research and recovery work in limbo. That means less protection, fewer reintroductions, and more fragile ecosystems without their top predator.

Thankfully, animal lovers are stepping in. A new nonprofit fund is raising money to support sea otter research and restoration, but private donations can’t replace public responsibility.

We’re calling on the U.S. Department of the Interior and members of Congress to restore full funding for sea otter recovery programs and support the scientists working to bring these animals back to their coastal homes.

Sea otters aren’t just cute, they are critical to ocean health. They help kelp forests thrive, boost tourism, and create balance in fragile marine ecosystems.

They've done their part. Now it's our turn.

Sign the petition to keep sea otter recovery alive. Because every pup deserves a wild place to call home.

Photo: (Rachel Bujalski / Bloomberg)