The warm air inside a sea otter’s fur

Sea otters do not have the insulating blubber found in many other marine mammals. Their dense fur and the heat produced by their bodies help them stay warm in cold water.

Grooming cleans the fur and keeps a layer of air trapped within it. That air helps insulate the otter. Its coat must be cared for to work well.

Rest is important, too. Disturbing an otter can interrupt the time it needs to conserve energy. Watching from a respectful distance is a way to enjoy wildlife without changing its day.