Where do most otters live, and what are two examples of places mentioned in the passage?
Most otters live in rivers, lakes, coastal waters, and even some oceans around the world. Two examples mentioned are rivers and coastal waters (or oceans / lake
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Why do otters spend a lot of time grooming their fur?
Otters spend a lot of time grooming their fur to keep it clean and shiny (and waterproof, which helps keep them warm in cold water).
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How do sea otters use tools, and what do they use them for?
Sea otters use rocks as tools to crack open shellfish.
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What is one way otters play, and how does playing help them?
One way otters play is sliding down muddy banks or chasing each other in the water. Playing helps them stay fit and learn hunting skills.
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Name two threats that otters face, and what has helped some otter populations recover?
Two threats otters face are pollution and habitat loss (or oil spills — any two from the three mentioned). Conservation efforts have helped many populations rec
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How does melting sea ice affect polar bears in the Arctic?
Melting sea ice means polar bears have less time to hunt seals, must swim longer distances, use more energy, and can become hungry or drown.
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What happens to walruses when there is less sea ice?
With less ice, walruses crowd onto small patches of land, which can cause stampedes that kill many calves.
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Why are emperor penguins in Antarctica having trouble raising their chicks?
Warmer temperatures cause the sea ice to break up too soon, so emperor penguin chicks fall into the water before they can swim or survive on their own.