DENVER/January 29, 2026 – Southern sea otters, one of California’s most beloved marine mammals, are facing a new and serious health threat: leptospirosis. A newly funded research fellowship aims to uncover solutions to protect this endangered species.
Morris Animal Foundation has announced support for a new fellowship training study designed to investigate this emerging disease affecting the southern sea otter population.
“Everyone loves the southern sea otter, but they’re an endangered species that is under significant pressure from climate change, loss of habitat and emerging infections new to the species,” said Dr. Kelly Diehl, Senior Director of Science Communication at Morris Animal Foundation. “This fellowship project addresses a new threat in order to stop this infection before it cause more destruction in this important species.”
Emerging Threat: Leptospirosis in Sea Otters
This year’s grant recipient is Dr. Kristen Schott of the University of California, Los Angeles. Her research will focus on the impact of leptospirosis, a serious bacterial disease, on sea otter health. Leptospirosis can affect a wide range of species, including humans, dogs, livestock, and increasingly, marine mammals like the southern sea otter.
About the Fellowship
Fellowship training awards from Morris Animal Foundation provide salary support and mentorship to emerging veterinary scientists. The program reflects the Foundation’s commitment to developing the next generation of leaders in animal health research.
Dr. Schott’s study will examine infection patterns and identify risk factors for sea otter exposure to leptospirosis. The findings could prove vital in developing strategies to curb the spread of this disease among endangered sea otters.
To learn more or support ongoing wildlife health research, visit morrisanimalfoundation.org/wildlife.
About Morris Animal Foundation
Morris Animal Foundation’s mission is to bridge science and resources to advance the health of animals. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Denver, it is one of the largest nonprofit animal health research organizations in the world, funding more than $170 million in 3,200+ critical animal health studies across species. Learn more at morrisanimalfoundation.org.
Media Contact: Lindsey Washington
