Leptonychotes weddellii

Weddell Seal

2.5–3.5 meter
25–30 jaar
Niet bedreigd
Over

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.

Grootte

2.5–3.5 meter

Gewicht

400–600 kg

Levensduur

25–30 jaar

Status

Niet bedreigd

Waar je ze kunt vinden

Beste duiklocaties

Mcmurdo Sound, AntarcticaAntarctic PeninsulaZuidelijke ShetlandeilandenRosszee

Duiktips

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.

Beste seizoen

November–March (Antarctic summer)

Leefgebied

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

Voeding

Fish (Antarctic silverfish, notothenioids), squid, krill, and other invertebrates
Wist je dat?

Leuke weetjes

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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