Sea otters have 850,000 to one million hairs per square inch, and the thickest fur of any mammal. Their fur actually consists of two layers, an undercoat and longer guard hairs. This system traps a layer of air next to their skin so their skin does not get wet. Sea otters are usually dark brown, often with lighter guard hairs. Alaskan sea otters tend to have lighter fur on their heads.

Fast Facts

Height:	Length California sea otters: 4 feet; northern sea otters are slightly larger.
Weight:	Males 65 lbs Females 45 lbs . Northern sea otters can reach up to 100 pounds.
Lifespan:	Males 10-15 years Females 15-20 years

 

Sea otters have long flat tails and since the majority of their time is spent in the water, webbed hind feet which are perfect for swimming. Retractable claws on a sea otter's front paws allow the sea otter to grab food. Sea otters have round heads, small eyes, and visible ears

Sea otters are the only otters to give birth in the water. Sea otters can grow up to about 4 feet and weigh 45-80 pounds.