Why Do Sea Otters Play? | A Marine Biologist Explains

#otter #seaotter #kpassionate
Everyone knows otters are extremely curious and playful animals. But not everyone realizes that play actually serves a vital role in their lives. So today, we’re going to take a Deeper Dive to find out why.

It’s a common misconception that play is a uniquely human trait. In fact, several prominent psychologists like Carl Jung and Sigmund Freud falsely believed that humans were the only species to engage in play. But anyone with a dog, cat, or ferret knows that simply isn’t true. A multitude of birds and mammals like to have fun.

Now these researchers were right in thinking that play was important for human development. But it’s also an important tool for animals as well. Play is exercise and it’s how animals develop their strength and coordination. But it’s also an important tool for developing social skills. Play can also be educational. A lot of times, in humans and in animals, play mimics natural behavior and is how the animal learns survival skills.

Play also promotes curiosity by encouraging them to explore and investigate their surroundings. And play is a natural stress reliever. Just like we humans like to play sports or video games to unwind… otters like to wrestle and splash around because it’s fun!
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[kasvan]

Great informational video narrated in a rainstorm

[yz]

This is so informative, KP. I really appreciate the effort you put into marine mammal rescue and education. Thank you!

[doubleagentxv]

That otter face at the end is so adorable! Which one was that?

[thedailyclaire]

Thank you for enduring the weather so we could have such fabulous views.

I LOVED how they used their pocket to store a toy! ☺☺☺

[helenpruzan]

Love the otters, playing, the info, you!Also thanks for filming outside in beautiful Vancouver!!It's breathtaking!!😺

[plumpuff]

What a sweet video. Your videos are getting more polished every time. Thank you for your hard work <3

[bethelle]

Great job, KP!
Loved the close up at the end!
I wish VanAqua would make a t shirt.
Photos of just the face of each otter. Faces on the back and the others on the front with names scripted where their necks would be.
It would bring attention to the otter world and have VanAquas name tastefully written on it as well. And with photos, we could more easily identify Joey and his troup when we watch them on youtube. Of course, and I am sure Tazlina would agree, the faces of Katmai, Joey and herself should be on the front.
Just saying.... With a t-shirt like that, the fans could feel close to them while wearing them. A nightshirt would be great too! A dream...to sleep with the otters!!!

[jessicad]

Best part of my day is when I get to see your face in person and on my screen at the same time

[aimeecormack]

Another reason to love Saturdays! Can't wait to see episode 3 🦦❤️

[marielal]

This is my favorite so far! Keep up the good work KP!

[kimberlyhendricks]

Loved it! Watching animals play is a great stress reliever for humans too. Thanks KP! Thanks for sharing the otters and the mini otters with us🥰

[TheOsakajo]

KP, thank you for another great video . Also, thank you for reminding me of the importance of having fun - it is so important to be active ! I find watching the otters play helps me relax, Joey and his buddies saved me from some major stress !

[gillianslaunwhite]

loved it! (sorry missed premiere) great clips used and informative! My otter love continues to grow hehe

[kj_wine]

I thought play was another way for animals to show that they are cuties. But good to know it provides behaviour development too, as well as fun.

[vivianafagerstedt]

I love this series, such interesting topics. I learn a lot of new facts from you! Thanks.

[petticoatsfroufrou]

Thank you for the great video, KP! I'm sorry you had to stand in the rain, but I appreciate your service. :) It was a new idea for me to think about otters encountering stressful situations via play, because as a human watching them play I find it stress relieving!

[janeeyre]

Play is very important to me as an adult human with ADHD. I identify strongly with the sea otters (e.g., investigating my surroundings with my paws/hands).

[lb]

So so good..thank you. Love the upside down otter at glass near the end.

[ashleyb]

Aww love the playful otters ❤️ Great video!

[KA-eusy]

Great video KP! :D Loved it. And love sea otters....playing!