Seal

Seal

Phocidae

Not Evaluated

Image generated by artificial intelligence

DESCRIPTION

Phocidae, commonly known as seals or earless seals, are a diverse family of marine mammals characterized by their streamlined, torpedo-shaped bodies, absence of external ear flaps, and powerful hind flippers used for propulsion in water. They move awkwardly on land by wriggling their bodies, as their hind flippers cannot rotate forward. Seals are opportunistic carnivores, with diets varying from fish, squid, and crustaceans to specialized prey like krill, penguins, or other seals. While conservation status varies greatly by species, many are found in polar, subpolar, and temperate coastal and open ocean environments.

Max Length 6.5 m
Max Weight 4000 kg
Lifespan 14 - 45 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, deep water, and open water
Depth Range 0 - 1980 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Cathemeral
Social Behavior Mixed behavour

Destinations to spot Seal

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Seal has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Seal

Where can you see the Seal?

The Seal can be seen at 2 dive destinations in Mexico. The best spots include Baja California Sur (Mexico) and Guadalupe Island (Mexico).

How big does the Seal get?

The Seal can reach up to 6.5 m in length and 4000 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Seal live in?

The Seal is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, deep water, and open water.

How deep does the Seal live?

The Seal lives from the surface down to 1980 m.

What does the Seal eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Seal most active?

Active in irregular bursts around the clock, by day and by night alike. There is no single best hour to look for it.

How long does the Seal live?

The Seal lives 14 to 45 years.

What is the conservation status of the Seal?

The Seal is listed as Not Evaluated on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Seal. Spotted something that looks off?

Tell us