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The Sea Otter Survey Data Visualization Tool was developed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to facilitate visualizing and downloading sea otter population survey data in an interactive mapping application. Numerous survey efforts have occurred over the years.
Sea otter survey data can be filtered based on type and year, and variables associated with survey effort, such as the transect locations, can also be added to the map. Data within the map extent can be easily downloaded. The tool displays data that are available through public data releases. The tool will be periodically updated to include different types of population survey data that have been collected using various methods (e.g., aerial photo, skiff-based distance sampling, etc.). Users are advised to read the User Guide thoroughly to understand appropriate use and data limitations.
It is requested that this USGS data visualization tool, as well as the data utilized by the tool, be cited for any subsequent publications that reference these data or tool.
Suggested Citation: Eisaguirre, J.M., 2025, Sea Otter Survey Data Visualization Tool (ver 1.0.0, November 2025): U.S. Geological Survey software release, https://doi.org/10.5066/P13NGILB.
A pair of scientists observe sea otter foraging behavior at Katmai National Park and Preserve. Questar telescopes are used to assist with prey identification.
A pair of scientists observe sea otter foraging behavior at Katmai National Park and Preserve. Questar telescopes are used to assist with prey identification.
North River Air pilot Taj Shoemaker getting ready for takeoff in Prince William Sound.
North River Air pilot Taj Shoemaker getting ready for takeoff in Prince William Sound.
Example of a screen capture of machine learning assisted image processing with OtterChecker9000 from the USFWS aerial survey for sea otters in Southeast AK.
Example of a screen capture of machine learning assisted image processing with OtterChecker9000 from the USFWS aerial survey for sea otters in Southeast AK.
A female sea otter resting in the morning light in Cook Inlet Alaska.
A female sea otter resting in the morning light in Cook Inlet Alaska.
A pair of scientists observe sea otter foraging behavior at Katmai National Park and Preserve. Questar telescopes are used to assist with prey identification.
A pair of scientists observe sea otter foraging behavior at Katmai National Park and Preserve. Questar telescopes are used to assist with prey identification.
North River Air pilot Taj Shoemaker getting ready for takeoff in Prince William Sound.
North River Air pilot Taj Shoemaker getting ready for takeoff in Prince William Sound.
Example of a screen capture of machine learning assisted image processing with OtterChecker9000 from the USFWS aerial survey for sea otters in Southeast AK.
Example of a screen capture of machine learning assisted image processing with OtterChecker9000 from the USFWS aerial survey for sea otters in Southeast AK.
A female sea otter resting in the morning light in Cook Inlet Alaska.
A female sea otter resting in the morning light in Cook Inlet Alaska.