It has long been known that sea otters sometimes use tools like shells and rocks to help them process their often thick-shelled invertebrate prey. We found that individual otters that use such tools frequently, especially females, are better able to consume a wide variety of prey, have higher energy consumption rates, and show reduced tooth wear. The broadening of prey base facilitated by the use of tools was especially important in cases where the more easily processed prey that are preferred, such as abalone, were in short supply. Tool use, thus, allows individuals otters to maintain energetic requirements by eating alternative prey that are typically inaccessible with biting alone.
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Law CJ, Tinker MT, Fujii, JA, Nicholson T, Staedler M, Tomoleoni J, Young C, & Mehta RS. 2024. Tool use increases foraging success in southern sea otters. Science. 384:798-802. doi.org/10.1126/science.adj6608
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