Sea otters are marine mammals adapted to life in the ocean. They possess the densest fur of any mammal, trapping air for insulation in cold Pacific waters rather than relying on blubber. Their existence demands constant activity, from foraging for food to meticulous grooming, which requires considerable energy. This continuous need for energy, combined with their aquatic environment, shapes their distinctive resting behaviors. Sea otters typically spend around 11 hours each day dedicated to resting and sleeping, an important part of maintaining their energy reserves.
Preferred Resting Spots
Sea otters primarily rest and sleep while floating on their backs in the water. They gravitate towards shallow coastal areas within the North Pacific Ocean for their resting spots. These preferred locations often include lush kelp forests, sheltered coves, tranquil bays, or areas near rocky coastlines.
Kelp forests are particularly favored for their inherent advantages, offering protection from strong currents and potential predators. The dense underwater vegetation acts as a natural anchor, preventing the otters from drifting away while they rest. By wrapping themselves in the long strands of kelp, sea otters effectively tether themselves to a stationary point. This anchoring mechanism also helps them conserve energy that would otherwise be expended fighting against the water’s movement.
Calmer waters and abundant food sources in sheltered bays and estuaries also make these suitable resting environments. While sea otters are mostly aquatic, they do occasionally come ashore to rest, especially in quiet, undisturbed areas. This behavior might occur during low tide or when seeking refuge from severe weather or threats.
Unique Sleeping Habits
When resting, otters often curl into a compact position, placing their heads on their chins. They sometimes keep their forepaws out of the water or on their chests to help regulate body temperature. Their hindlegs are typically folded onto their bellies, with their tails remaining on the water’s surface to assist with balance.
A notable social behavior during rest is the formation of “rafts,” which are groups of otters floating together. These rafts can vary greatly in size, ranging from a few individuals to several hundred, and are often organized by gender. Within these floating groups, otters may hold paws with one another, a behavior that helps prevent them from drifting apart and contributes to group safety and warmth.
Sea otters dedicate roughly 40% to 49% of their day to resting. Their primary sleep period typically occurs at night, from about 8 PM to 9 AM, though they also take shorter naps throughout the day. Even during sleep, they are not completely motionless, often making subtle adjustments to maintain their balance. During periods of deeper sleep, an otter’s head might momentarily dip below the water’s surface.