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Life in the Water

werner bollmann—getty images

Sea mammals swim in the water. But they are not fish. They breathe air. They are warm-blooded, just like humans. Some sea mammals can also walk on land. Find out about these animals!

BRIAN J. SKERRY—NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CREATIVE

A Slow Swimmer

Manatees live in shallow water. They move slowly. They eat sea grass.

ANTHONY PIERCE—ALAMY

Going for a Spin

Spinner dolphins do tricks in the air. They twist and flip above the water.

PAUL NICKLEN—NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CREATIVE

Family Life

Orcas, or killer whales, live in big groups. A group hunts together. The orcas help each other stay safe.

HEATHER WEST—GETTY IMAGES

Floating Along

Sea otters have thick fur. It keeps them warm. These mammals often float float GETTY IMAGES to rest on top of a liquid ( ) The mat floated in the pool. on top of the water. They can eat and sleep on their back.

ILLUSTRATION BY GARY LACOSTE FOR TIME FOR KIDS

How Long?

Blue whales are the largest animals on Earth. A blue whale can grow to be about 100 feet long. That’s as long as three school buses!

Think!

What is your favorite animal? Does it live in the water or on land?

Meet a Walrus

This sea mammal lives where it is cold and icy. Read about the parts of a walrus’s body. Then answer the questions.

1. Which body part helps a walrus find food?

2. Which body part helps a walrus stay warm?

3. Which body part is wrinkled and thick?