Whale: Skin

A whale’s skin feels much like smooth, wet rubber to the touch. The skin has no sweat glands or oil glands, and it is nearly devoid of hair. Beneath the skin is a thick layer of fat called blubber that aids in buoyancy, serves as a source of stored energy, and helps preserve body heat. Blubber permits whales to stay warm even in near-freezing waters.
Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.