Invertebrate

Ochre sea star

Pisaster ochraceus

Rocky intertidal shores, often near mussel beds

Photo: D. Gordon E. Robertson · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source and license. Displayed as a resized crop. Photograph illustrates the species.

Habitat: Rocky intertidal shores, often near mussel beds
Published depth range: Intertidal to 90 m
Viewing activities: Beach / tidepool · Snorkeling · Scuba diving

Field context

Wave-washed rocky shores; characteristic intertidal species, with records extending to 90 m.

Observing responsibly

Individuals can be orange, purple, or brown. View animals in place and leave them attached to the rock.

When to look

The available records do not establish a reliable local viewing season. Use the map’s month filter to inspect dated observations; it does not predict an encounter.

WHERE HAS IT BEEN RECORDED?

Explore the featured regions

These dated records show past presence. They do not establish today’s abundance, guarantee a sighting, or describe the species’ entire range.

This reference profile does not have a matching record in the four featured snapshots. That is not evidence of absence. Explore the live map for other areas and records.