Sea otter cuddles her pup to keep it dry and warm while it sleeps

The mother otter cuddled her pup while it slept
The mother otter cuddled her pup while it slept Credit: Suzi Eszterhas/Minden Pictures/Solent News

When you live in the sea, it's hard to keep dry and warm during the night when you want a snooze.

Adult sea otters often hold hands to keep together when they sleep on their backs in the ocean, but this little pup wanted to stay warm, dry and safe during its nap.

So, its mother lay on her back and let the little baby sleep on her upturned, fluffy stomach.

Baby otter and mamma otter. How cute! 😍

A photo posted by Daily Otters (@daily_otters) on

The adorable scene was captured by nature photographer Suzi Eszterhas, 40.

She took the picture in Monterey Bay, California, where she frequently observes the local wildlife.

Ms Eszterhas also said she saw the mother blowing warm air into the pup's fur to gently groom it. 

Eventually, the mother let her pup float on its own, and Ms Eszterhas was shocked that the two moved closer to her as she stood quietly so as not to scare them.

Sea otters can be found in shallow coastal areas around the Pacific ocean in North America and Asia.

They often float on their backs on the water's surface in a posture of serene repose.

The creatures often sleep in groups to keep safe.

As well as sleeping, sea otters also often munch snacks they've caught from the sea while resting on their backs.

They can be seen with a mussel or clam and a rock from the ocean floor to bash it open with.

Baby sea otters are held to the chests of their mothers while they are still nursing, but are quickly taught how to swim and hunt.

 

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