An otter s lungs are bigger than any land animal of the same size. They can dive deeper because of their big lung capacity. Sea otters dive to hide from predators and to retrieve food. An otter has external ears and can hear very well. Their ears are protected by a flap of skin just inside the ear to stop water from going inside.
Sea otters have a very good sense of smell.
On our trip to Monterey our coach Mr. Rasner had to cleanse his shoes before being allowed by the trainers to enter the otter s habitat area. An unfamiliar scent could make the otters frightened or feel threatened. They could try to hurt someone or quit eating.