The otters journey.

The otter basked in the sun after a cold night, floating on her back to warm her belly—where a new life was beginning.

The harbor was filled with boats, both old and new, but she had found a safe haven on one that was rarely visited by its owner. She had learned to keep watch, knowing when it was safe to return. Drifting on the gentle waves, she observed everything around her, always mindful of danger—for her own sake and for the little one growing inside her.

She wasn’t a picky eater and would normally feast on whatever the sea provided. But now, she had to be careful. Nearby, fishermen were cleaning their catch, tossing scraps into the water. Slowly, she paddled closer, hoping for a bite. A discarded piece of fish landed within reach, and she seized it, making a quick meal before diving back beneath the surface.

When she returned to where the old boat should have been, it was gone. Her safe place had vanished.

Still hungry, she dived to the seafloor, plucking a mussel from the reef before surfacing again. On her next dive, she retrieved a smooth stone. Lying on her back, she placed the mussel on her belly and used the stone to crack it open, just as she had done with the fish head. Satisfied at last, she turned her attention to finding shelter.

Drifting through the harbor, she spotted an old, half-sunken boat. Cautiously, she circled it, sniffing the air and scanning for threats. It seemed safe. With a swift movement, she hauled herself aboard, curled up, and closed her eyes.

Months later, in the quiet safety of her newfound refuge, she gave birth to a healthy pup. As she cradled the tiny, wriggling life against her warm fur, she knew her world had changed forever.

Motherhood had begun.