Sunflower Sea Star

ocean · giant animal · predator · endangered

Massive multi-armed hunter. The sunflower sea star can stretch as wide as a meter (about 3.3 feet) across, making it one of the largest sea stars in the entire world. Most of these incredible creatures have between 16 and 24 long, flexible arms.

Rainbow of colors. Sunflower sea stars come in many different colors, ranging from bright oranges and reds to yellows and purples. Each one is unique, like a living piece of ocean art.

Hungry ocean predator. These sea stars are fierce hunters that creep along the ocean floor eating sea urchins, clams, sea snails, and other small creatures. Their many arms help them search for and grab their next meal.

Found in the Pacific. Sunflower sea stars live in the northeastern Pacific Ocean, from California all the way up to Alaska. They prefer the cool, deep waters off the coast.

Suddenly endangered. Around 2013, something mysterious caused the sunflower sea star population to crash dramatically. Now they are classified as Critically Endangered, which means they are in serious trouble and need protection.