Jane Goodall talks of protecting sea otters, joins boat tour in California wetland

Andrea Valadez, Monterey Daily Herald on Apr 16, 2025

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MOSS LANDING — Aboard a quiet, full catamaran, legendary conservationist Jane Goodall spoke to her latest mission: supporting the survival of Monterey Bay’s charming, yet still vulnerable, icon – the sea otter.

During a visit to Carmel last month, a conversation between Goodall and former Monterey Bay Aquarium Executive Director Julie Packard led the conservationist to understand how much support sea otters need, even in a region where they are considered a mascot. This conversation led to Goodall’s participation with the Wildlife Conservation Sea Otter Fund, which is dedicated to restoring the sea otter population along the coast.

Goodall gave a sold-out lecture on behalf of “Hope for Sea Otters” at Sunset Center on April 7. She also led two sold-out “sea otter safaris” on the Monterey Bay Eco Tours catamaran on Elkhorn Slough. Goodall was accompanied by representatives from the Wildlife Conservation Network, an organization dedicated to protecting endangered wildlife by supporting conservation efforts.

“It was so incredibly inspiring to see someone who has worked so hard her entire life for the good of the planet,” said Wendy Kitchell, owner of Monterey Bay Eco Tours. “To have her on the boat just made me want to be a better person.”

Based in Moss Landing, the tour company takes guests on guided boat and wildlife tours with experts. Guests explore Elkhorn Slough, a biodiverse wetland essential to local wildlife.

During the safaris, Goodall spoke to the importance of sea otters as a key component to our ecosystems.

Goodall spoke to the guests about how to take small steps to help the environment and “foster positivity and make people happy,” said Kitchell.

The Sea Otter Fund is the Wildlife Conservation Network’s first marine-focused fund and 92% of donations that go toward the fund are being directed toward conservation efforts in the field.

Monterey Bay Eco Tours also has a focus on protecting wildlife and the environment. El Cat, the catamaran used for tours, is the first fully electric U.S. Coast Guard certified vessel on the West Coast.

“She’s just an incredible person and so strong and vital and just encourages others to do good things,” said Kitchell. “We’re honored that she chose our company to highlight her work.”

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