Primary Predators:
* Orcas (Killer Whales): Orcas are the most significant threat to sea otters. They are large, intelligent, and powerful predators that can easily hunt and kill otters.
* Great White Sharks: While not as common as orcas, great white sharks are also known to prey on sea otters, especially in areas where their ranges overlap.
Secondary Predators:
* Sharks (Other than Great Whites): Other shark species, particularly larger ones, might occasionally prey on sea otters.
* Bears: While sea otters are primarily marine animals, they can sometimes be vulnerable to land predators like bears, particularly if they venture close to shore.
Other Threats:
* Humans: Human activities like fishing, oil spills, and habitat destruction can also negatively impact sea otter populations.
It's important to note that sea otter populations are generally quite low, and their numbers have been severely impacted by historical hunting and other human activities. As a result, they are now considered a threatened species in many areas.