Leptonychotes weddellii

Weddell Seal

2.5–3.5 metri
25–30 anni
Minima preoccupazione
Informazioni

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.

Dimensioni

2.5–3.5 metri

Peso

400–600 kg

Durata della vita

25–30 anni

Stato

Minima preoccupazione

Dove trovarli

Migliori siti di immersione

Mcmurdo Sound, AntartideAntarctic PeninsulaIsole Shetland MeridionaliMare di Ross

Consigli per le immersioni

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.

Stagione migliore

November–March (Antarctic summer)

Habitat

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

Alimentazione

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

Curiosità

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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