Otters smell great!

Marine mammal researcher Jennifer Hammock is conducting a test on sea otters' sense of smell in aquariums in three states. Currently in the test's early stages, the otters are being trained to indicate whether they can smell a substance sprayed into a hole on a board. They are learning quickly and have already proven to have much better senses of smell than previously thought, and even express fondness or displeasure towards specific scents. Scientists hope to have a better understanding of the olfactory mechanics and capabilities of sea otters and mustelids in general, and results may lead to "otter repellent" to warn wild animals from dangerous areas. Full articles published in The Californian and the Monterey County Herald.