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

What to look for

Look for five stout arms and small pale spines forming a patterned upper surface. Individuals can be orange, brown, purple or other shades; the common name is not a dependable color test.

What it eats

Mussels, limpets, chitons and other invertebrates are prey. Tube feet help handle food, and the stomach can extend over prey during digestion.

Life and behavior

An animal that appears still may be gripping the rock or feeding. Observe where it is attached rather than pulling it off for a closer look.

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.

Learn more about this species

RECORDED PRESENCE

Where has Ochre sea star been recorded?

These destination links use the same area and date cutoff as the map: 40 km circles, except for the four named regional rectangles. Checked 2026-09-19. Counts describe source records, not individual animals or sighting odds.

Channel IslandsCalifornia, United States40 km radius · 7041 source records since 2016About this destination →La JollaCalifornia, United States40 km radius · 1054 source records since 2016About this destination →Monterey BayCalifornia, United StatesRegional rectangle · 15677 source records since 2016About this destination →

Sources, search boundaries and limitations