Leptonychotes weddellii

Weddell Seal

2.5–3.5 metros
25–30 años
Preocupación menor
Sobre

Weddell Seal

The Weddell seal is the most southerly breeding mammal on Earth, found year-round on the fast ice surrounding Antarctica. These large, docile seals are known for their haunting underwater vocalisations and can hold their breath for over an hour while diving to depths exceeding 600 metres. Their placid temperament and curiosity towards humans make them a highlight of any Antarctic expedition.

Tamaño

2.5–3.5 metros

Peso

400–600 kg

Esperanza de vida

25–30 años

Estado

Preocupación menor

Dónde encontrarlos

Mejores ubicaciones de buceo

Mcmurdo Sound, AntártidaPenínsula AntárticaIslas Shetland del SurMar de Ross

Consejos de buceo

Weddell seals are often encountered at breathing holes in the sea ice. They are remarkably tolerant of human presence and may approach divers underwater. Under-ice diving is extremely specialised and should only be attempted with experienced polar dive operators.

Mejor temporada

November–March (Antarctic summer)

Hábitat

Antarctic fast ice, coastal ice shelves, and sub-Antarctic islands

Alimentación

Fish (Antarctic silverfish, notothenioids), squid, krill, and other invertebrates
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Datos curiosos

1

They can dive to over 600 metres and hold their breath for more than 80 minutes

2

Weddell seals maintain breathing holes in the ice by grinding the ice with their teeth

3

Their underwater calls include trills, whistles, and chirps that carry for kilometres under the ice

4

They are the most southerly breeding mammal in the world

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