The sea otter is known for sleeping while holding hands with another sea otter.
Sea otters often rest floating on their backs, and individuals may hold paws so they do not drift apart. They may also anchor themselves in kelp while resting. This behavior is especially memorable in pairs or groups called rafts, although not every sea otter sleeps hand-in-hand.
A sea otter’s floating lifestyle is supported by its dense fur, lungs, and frequent grooming. It commonly rests at the surface, where it can breathe without climbing onto land. Mothers may keep pups close while the young animals develop swimming and diving skills.
The behavior is sometimes presented as deliberate romantic symbolism, but that interpretation goes beyond the evidence. Holding paws mainly helps maintain contact in moving water. Sea otters also use their forepaws to handle food, groom fur, and manipulate objects such as stones used to open hard prey.