[[image: A seal.jpg|thumb|250px|right|A Seal in water, demonstrating the insulating properties of blubber]]
[[image: A seal.jpg|thumb|250px|right|A Seal in water, demonstrating the insulating properties of blubber]]
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If this insulating layer of air is replaced by water, heat is readily lost from the skin's surface, leading to a decrease in core body temperature and ultimately '''hypothermia'''. The layer is protected by secretions from the skin onto the fur or feathers. In birds, secretions from the [[The Integument of Exotic Species#Avian Skin|uropygial gland]] maintain the water repellant properties of the plumage. In mammals that are regularly exposed to water, a thick layer of subcutaneous adipose tissue of '''blubber''' is present as the insulating air is completely lost and replaced by water.
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If this insulating layer of air is replaced by water, heat is readily lost from the skin's surface, leading to a decrease in core body temperature and ultimately '''hypothermia'''. The layer is protected by secretions from the skin onto the fur or feathers. In birds, secretions from the [[The Integument of Exotic Species - Anatomy & Physiology#Avian Skin|uropygial gland]] maintain the water repellant properties of the plumage. In mammals that are regularly exposed to water, a thick layer of subcutaneous adipose tissue of '''blubber''' is present as the insulating air is completely lost and replaced by water.