The U.S. Geological Survey's Ecological Research Center finished its sea otter census for 2012 this week, which shows growth in the species' population from San Mateo County to Santa Barbara.
A large spike in the population was especially noted north of Monterey. Scientists are not sure the data is indicative of any future trends, but they are optimistic.
One otter working to improve the local population is the famous Olive, who was found covered in oil off of Pleasure Point in 2009. After .
Via Olive's official Facebook page, which is monitored by the Department of Fish and Game, the otter's pregnancy was announced in early July. At the time she was believed to be three months pregnant.
Since then, there has been no announcement of her pups' arrival. According to NYAquarium.com, the gestational period of a sea otter is about six months.
On Aug. 2, KION reported that Olive was in "great health." According to her Facebook page, Olive was most recently spotted on Aug. 17 "resting at The Hook in Capitola in a group of eight otters." She was also seen in the same spot on Aug. 8.
Stay tuned to Capitola-Patch to find out when Olive has her pups.
