It seemed to be posing for our cameras. Common to most of the US and Canada this large rodent is a master dam builder. Although damming a stream may cause problems for man, the beaver's construction often results in a large flowage that is excellent habitat for waterfowl and other animals. We saw our first sea otter as we left Homer on the Rainbow Connection for the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies. It was lying on its back in the water and probably taking a nap.
Sea otters are extremely aquatic.
They are rarely seen on shore. They sleep in the water by wrapping strands of kelp around themselves. They even mate and give birth in the water. These playful animals are the best tool users next to primates. When feeding on clams, they place a rock on their chest and smash the shell open with it.