Otter in Morro Bay poses for tourists

This graying sea otter was content to pose for tourists recently near the South T Pier dock in Morro Bay.

About 2,800 otters live in California, and they can be found from Morro Bay all the way up to Half Moon Bay.

Otters are a protected species as they have been hunted historically for their thick, beautiful fur.

According to the Marine Mammal Center, otters are also especially vulnerable to oil spills, which can damage their fur, making it hard for them to stay warm in the cold Pacific waters.

This story was originally published April 11, 2016 at 4:27 AM with the headline "Otter in Morro Bay poses for tourists."