The surveys record numbers of independent otters and pups observed, location and behavior. Results are used as an indicator of the population trend of California sea otters in this area. The primary purposes of these surveys have been to identify and illustrate changes in the local otter population for Point Lobos Reserve visitors and to provide this information to the USGS.

Data indicate a general decrease in otter sightings over the last 15 years at Pt. Lobos. There was a decrease in both independent otter and pup sightings. Typically the total count of adults and juveniles peaks during mid-summer which is towards the end of the pupping season (Figure 1).

The relative abundance of pups generally exceeds the relative abundance of independent adult otters from February to July and peaks in May (Figure 2). This peak coincides with the January to March pupping season.

The Pt. Lobos otter program is working with SIMoN to digitize historic data to be able to develop summaries showing otter densities and abundance over the last fifteen years. See the PDF link below for an example density map.

• Annual totals of monthly sightings of California sea otters indicate an general decrease in the local otter population at Point Lobos State Reserve.
• The number of otter sightings at Point Lobos typically peaks in June for all otters (independents and pups).
• The high relative abundance of pups from late winter to early summer is consistent with expectations from the known pupping season.