Sea Otter Skeleton Study Insights

Mike DeRoos discusses the life and recovery of an old sea otter found at Seventh Beach. He details the process of reconstructing the otter's skeleton, emphasizing the importance of studying the animal's natural habitat and using artistic license to create a dynamic display. Challenges such as infected teeth and intricate paw bones are highlighted. DeRoos reflects on the unique opportunity to understand the lives of these animals through their bones.

Where was the old sea otter found before it was brought back to Hakai?

• Ninth Beach

• Third Beach

• Seventh Beach

• First Beach

What is Mike DeRoos's role in the sea otter project?

• He is the one who found the otter's habitat.

• He is the one who discovered the otter.

• He is responsible for assembling the otter's skeleton.

• He is the one who took the otter's pelt off.

What is the main reason for studying sea otters in their natural habitat according to Mike?

• To capture them for research.

• To understand their diet.

• To depict them in natural and dynamic positions.

• To find new otter species.

What health issue did the old sea otter suffer from?

• Broken tail

• Infected teeth

• Damaged fins

• Blindness

How long did it take to work on the sea otter's skeleton?

• Eight weeks

• Six weeks

• Four weeks

• Two weeks

What was the most time-consuming part of assembling the sea otter's skeleton?

• The skull

• The tail

• The rib cage

• The front paws

How many sea otter skeletons has Mike assembled before this one?

• One

• Two

• Four

• Three

What does Mike find fascinating about studying animal skeletons?

• Their weight

• Their color

• Their size

• Their unique stories

What opportunity does studying the sea otter skeleton provide?

• To peek into the lives of these animals

• To discover new species

• To learn about marine plants

• To improve swimming techniques