The Otter Spotters

This is indeed an Alaskan adventure. For two years this resourceful couple experienced intense and dangerous situations yet they persevered and learned a tremendous amount about sea otters.<br>-Ancel M. Johnson U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Sea Otter Biologist retired<p>A white-headed male sea otter paddles on his back patrolling his territory while he rubs his round fuzzy face with his dexterous forepaws. Suddenly he notices a young couple on shore and pops straight up in the water to have a better look. As two people stare back at him through a high-powered telescope these three have one thing in common-curiosity.<p> <i>The Otter Spotters</i> chronicles the incredible journey of Minnesotans Dave and Judy Garshelis who spent over a year in the wilderness of Prince William Sound Alaska studying sea otters. While working from remote field locations and traveling by open skiff they faced relentless rain rough seas bears mechanical failures and perilous mishaps all while completing one of the most comprehensive studies of this fascinating species. This captivating story includes unforgettable adventures as well as detailed documentation of the otters' social relationships feeding activity patterns and breeding behaviors. Here is a rare insider's view of the true essence of wildlife research: from the day-to-day drudgery of checking capture nets at 4:00 AM to evening brainstorming sessions under the warm glow of a Coleman lantern interspersed with the occasional Eureka! moments that make it all worthwhile.