HEARTWARMING images have surfaced of young sea otter lying on its mothers belly as the pair floated down a river in Monterey, California.

The photographs, taken by 53-year-old Geraldine Davies, show the mum affectionately washing and cuddling her pup.

“I live on a sail boat with my husband and we were out in Monterey Harbour on our dingy when we came across this mother and her pup resting under the boardwalk,” she said.

“We watched her every day for about three weeks and eventually she was quite comfortable with us being so close.

“It was a very special experience, especially as she had a pup.”

Sea otters are now classified as an endangered species following their numbers rapidly decreasing as a result of being hunted for their fur.

media_camera It looks like a relaxing swim. Picture: Geraldine Davies/Caters News

media_camera The baby stretching out and making the most of mums belly. Picture: Geraldine Davies/Caters News

media_camera Obviously all too much for bub who decided to take a nap. Picture: Geraldine Davies/Caters News

media_camera The mother putting on a show for the camera. Picture: Geraldine Davies/Caters News

media_camera The mother cuddled the pup for the journey. Picture: Geraldine Davies/Caters News

media_camera The heartwarming moment was captured by a husband and wife while they were sailing in a dingy. Picture: Geraldine Davies/Caters News

media_camera The photographer said the otter was comfortable being so close. Picture: Geraldine Davies/Caters News

Originally published as Otterly adorable moment caught on film