Leptonychotes weddellii

Weddell Seal

2.5–3.5 metriä
25–30 vuotta
Elinvoimainen
Tietoa

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.

Koko

2.5–3.5 metriä

Paino

400–600 kg

Elinikä

25–30 vuotta

Suojelutila

Elinvoimainen

Missä niitä löytää

Parhaat sukelluskohteet

Mcmurdo Sound, EtelämannerAntarktinen niemimaaEteläiset ShetlandsaaretRossinmeri

Sukellusvinkit

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.

Paras kausi

November–March (Antarctic summer)

Elinympäristö

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

Ravinto

Fish (Antarctic silverfish, notothenioids), squid, krill, and other invertebrates
Tiesitkö?

Hauskoja faktoja

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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