Leptonychotes weddellii

Weddell Seal

2.5–3.5 metros
25–30 anos
Pouco preocupante
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.

Tamanho

2.5–3.5 metros

Peso

400–600 kg

Expectativa de vida

25–30 anos

Estado

Pouco preocupante

Onde encontrá-los

Melhores locais de mergulho

Mcmurdo Sound, AntártidaAntarctic PeninsulaIlhas Shetland do SulMar de Ross

Dicas de mergulho

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.

Melhor época

November–March (Antarctic summer)

Habitat

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

Alimentação

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

Curiosidades

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

Comece sua aventura

Pronto para mergulhar com este animal?

Explore nossas expedições de liveaboard para os melhores destinos de mergulho