Chapter 2 – Introduction
The ability to successfully rehabilitate sea otters during an oil spill depends on a rapid and efficient response. Such a response requires trained personnel familiar with the techniques and regulations for safely capturing and transporting sea otters. Because sea otters often inhabit remote areas of coastline (Kenyon, 1969; Calkins and Schneider, 1985), knowledge about the geographic distribution and life history of the otter is invaluable to the response effort. The purpose of this chapter is to outline the basic knowledge and techniques required for capturing oiled sea otters. We emphasize the importance of prespill planning and training to ensure the success of the program and the safety of animals and personnel.
