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5 Amazing Mammals of Antarctica

Leopard Seal, Hydrurga leptonyx

Leopard Seal

5 Amazing Mammals of Antarctica
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We hope that each of you, our loyal readers, will sincerely enjoy and appreciate this article we present to you about these 5 Amazing Mammals of Antarctica. As always, it was certainly our pleasure to compile the information for you. May it provide you with both education and awareness.

While amazing, these few species listed herein represent only a tiny portion of the many natural wonders found throughout the region, though. Yet, it’s our belief that they serve as excellent representations of the wonders found here. Check out some of our other articles for similar marvels.

Crabeater Seal

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Crabeater Seal Facts

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Crabeater Seal Physical Description

The intriguing Crabeater Seal fully deserves the appreciation that the pinniped receives from those individuals fortunate enough to encounter the wonder. Unlike some of its relatives, however, it does so for more than just that visual appeal. That’s because it also boasts a highly respectable size.

Following a pattern in that regard prevalent among its numerous kindred around the world, the animal displays a certain degree of the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism. In the case of this particular species, though, that trait manifests itself purely in terms of measurements.

More precisely, females of this work of Nature attain slightly greater average sizes than their male counterparts. To the great surprise of some people, that’s actually the case in the majority of currently known mammalian species. The difference here remains extremely minor, however.

Collectively, mature adults of this species reach an average total length equaling approximately 7.5 ft (2.3 m). In keeping with the trend of females being a tiny bit larger, this gender achieves a mean length roughly 2.4 in (6 cm) greater than the males. As stated, that’s a minor difference.

Weights differ between the sexes as well, though again to only a very small degree. Males of the creature reach a mean body mass equaling about 440 lb (200 kg). Females, however, average roughly 474 lb (215 kg). But, exceptional examples of either sex sometimes reach 660 lb (300 kg).

Otherwise, the genders of the amazing Crabeater Seal present the same general appearance to the observer. Its fur generally presents various shades of either silver or brown. Darker spots of either color usually develop around the flippers. These fade during the year, prior to moulting.

Compared to other members of its Family, this wonder of Nature and evolution possesses a relatively slender body shape. Both its snout and skull also follow this growth pattern. Its teeth are its most distinctive feature, though. Their tight fit allows the seal to sieve food from the water.

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Crabeater Seal Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The fascinating Crabeater Seal evolved as endemic to a comparatively broad expanse of the earth’s surface. Given its nature, the location of the zone of habitation isn’t going to surprise many people, however. The undeniably magnficent animal principally inhabits the area of Antarctica.

Since its territorial range qualifies as primarily circumpolar in nature, it’s rarely seen outside of this region. Nevertheless, individuals and small groups do appear outside the usual area occasionally. It’s not known to science for certain, though, whether this occurs intentionally or accidentally.

With the rare exceptions previously noted above, this marvel of Nature typically displays decidedly strong and clear preferences regarding its choice of habitat. As a general principle, members of the impressive species spend the entirety of the year liviing on the pack ice found in the region.

This structure itself routinely advances and retreats according to the differing seasons. Due to this unique location, this means that the majority of individuals spend most of their time near the continental shelf. The depth of the waters the pinniped inhabit rarely exceeds 1,969 ft (600 m).

The extraordinary Crabeater Seal further developed as a highly specialized carnivore. Roughly 90% of its diet therefore consists of Antarctic krill. The remainder of its prey includes numerous other relatively small creatures, such as various species of locally available fish and small cephalopods.

This fascinating mammal also lives its life as the most gregarious of its relatives in the region. Whether on the ice or at sea, the young almost always stay in large groups. These sometimes number as many as 1,000 individuals. Adults, though, often live singly, or maybe 2 -3 together.

Despite its large size, the species itself still possesses its own share of predators. The young frequently fall prey to leopard seals. Mature adults, however, understandably have fewer foes. Orcas are known to hunt them, though, as well as the young, indiscriminately. Larger sharks may do so too.

Humpback Whale

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Humpback Whale Facts

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Humpback Whale Physical Description

The remarkable Humpback Whale truly distinguishes itself from most of its numerous kindred across the marine waters of the world. It does so, however, for more than just its sheer visual appeal. The creature also earns merit due to the fact that it ranks as one of the larger of its kind.

In that regard, the animal also follows an evolutionary pattern common among many mammals. That’s shown by the fact that it displays a certain amount of the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism. In its case, this trait manifest itself in terms of pure physical dimensions.

More specifically, males of the species attain greater average measurements than their female counterparts. Overall, though, the difference remains comparatively minor. Adult males typically range from 46 – 49 ft (14 – 15 m) in length. Females average about 3 – 5 ft (0.9 – 1.5 m) less.

The marvel of Nature also has a highly distinctive body shape characterized by a relatively large, robust body with a small dorsal fin located far back on its body. Its pectoral fins additionally develop as quite long and paddle-shaped, making up about one-third of its total body length.

In color, the impressive cetacean also presents a very distinctive visual pattern. This consists of mostly black or dark gray on its upper side, while its lower side usually shows lighter, often white. The animal also sometimes shows slightly irregular white patches on its flippers, belly, and throat.

For some viewers, however, the head of the Humpback Whale marks yet another feature that sets it apart from its kin. It displays a large, knobbly head with an elongated jaw covered in small, wart-like bumps called tubercles. These contain hair follicles believed to aid in sensory perception.

Yet another characteristic feature of this amazing mammal’s the presence of multiple pleats or throat grooves along its ventral side. These numerous grooves allow the animal’s throat to expand during feeding, enabling it to take in large volumes of water and prey during the process.

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Humpback Whale Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Fortunately, the mighty Humpback Whale evolved naturally as endemic to an extraordinarily large expanse of the marine waters of the world. In fact, that natural zone of habitation consists of virtually all oceans and seas, with only a very few small, widely isolated exceptions.

Included among those comparatively rare places the mammal does not appear comes a handful of small enclosed seas. Somewhat understandably, however, it also does not live in the High Arctic areas. Intriguingly, though, it’s additionally absent from some regions situated near the equator.

Maintaining a pattern common to whales, this marvelous wonder of evolution displays decidedly strong flexibility regarding its choice of habitat. It’s therefore frequently found in an extremely wide variety of marine environments, including coastal waters, open ocean, fjords, and estuaries.

Yet, it’s also often observed near underwater features such as seamounts, submarine canyons, and continental shelves, where there’s increased prey abundance and more favorable oceanographic conditions. The animal further shows a strongly clear favoritism for much colder waters.

The amazing species feeds primarily as what’s known as a filter feeder. To that end, it uses baleen plates in its mouth to strain small prey such as krill, plankton, and small fish from the water. It also often feeds cooperatively, actually blowing bubbles, to trap the prey for easier feeding!

The Humpback Whale also undertakes amazingly long-distance migrations between its feeding and breeding grounds. These are driven by seasonal changes in temperature and prey availability. During migration, the whale travels thousands of miles, often following regular, predictable routes.

Breeding typically occurs in warmer waters during the winter months. Males engage in gently competitive behaviors such as singing and physical displays to attract the females. Mating itself typically produces a single calf, after an average gestation period lasting about 11-12 months.

Leopard Seal

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Leopard Seal Facts

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Leopard Seal Physical Description

The fabulous Leopard Seal almost immediately grabs the attention of those individuals fortunate enough to view one of these magnificent creatures. Yet, this usually holds true for several reasons. That’s true since it’s not only a beautiful work of evolution, but also physically quite large.

In this regard, the species further follows a natural pattern common among mammals, including its numerous relatives. That’s in the fact that it demonstrates a degree of the physical characteristic of sexual dimorphism. In its particular case, though, the trait manifests in terms of sheer size.

More specifically, females of the awesome species attain a greater average body size than their male counterparts. This pattern extends to both length and weight. While both sexes have a similar general body shape, the larger size of the females clearly remains a distinguishing feature.

Mature females of this extraordinary pinniped species sometimes reach lengths measuring approximately 11.5 ft (3.5 m). The weights of these specimens also occasionally total as much as an equally impressive 880 – 1,320 lb (400 – 600 kg). Most, however, never reach these maximums.

Males of the species, meanwhile, do not usually grow quite so large. For this gender, a mean body length measures roughly 9.2 – 10.8 ft (2.8 – 3.3 m). Likewise typically remaining significantly less massive, their body weights generally range somewhere between 600 – 880 lb (270 – 400 kg).

Otherwise, the two genders present the same general outward appearance. The distinctive animal evolved a streamlined body well-adapted for swimming. That form’s also elongated, with a relatively small head compared to its body size. The pinniped also has a very strong, muscular neck.

The head of the creature clearly developed as somewhat flattened in terms of its design. Its mouth holds large, powerful jaws equipped with sharp, closely interlocking teeth. The eyes also developed as relatively large, and typically dark brown in color. These provide them with excellent vision.

It’s the skin and fur of the stunning Leopard Seal, though, that leads to the mainly used common name. That’s generally dark gray to silver on the back, with lighter, almost white, undersides. The coat’s covered with spots, usually more concentrated on the back and reducing near the belly.

The seal also boasts comparatively long, slender foreflippers, which it uses for its surprisingly powerful swimming. These flippers also develop as marked with spots. Its tail stays short, as remains typical of seals, and the hind flippers grow large, aiding in its propulsion through water.

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Leopard Seal Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The fully distinctive Leopard Seal evolved as indigenous to a surprisingly large, and yet still hard to define, region of the surface of the globe. That’s due to the fact the animal, like all species, has a primary range, yet also occasionally ventures outside of it, sometimes even a long distance.

This wonder of Nature developed as principally native to the area of the earth known as Antarctica. Yet, it also ventures out somewhat to numerous sub-Antarctic islands. Incredibly, a small percentage of individuals even journey as far north as South AmericaAustralia, and New Zealand.

Within that unquestionably extensive range, the animal displays a decidedly high level of adaptability regarding its choice of habitat. It’s therefore found in a wide range of ecosystems. Most of these, of course, generally share one trait, that of being associated with cold, icy regions.

It’s most commonly found in and around the frigid pack ice surrounding Antarctica. This environment serves to provide it with ample hunting grounds and resting spots. The ice floes work as platforms from which it can hunt, and also haul itself out onto the ice to rest, molt, and give birth.

The wonder of Nature’s also often found within the many coastal waters immediately around the same area. Here, it’s able to hunt for its various prey as well. These alternate areas also provide rich feeding grounds, particularly during the austral summer when prey’s much more abundant.

Although primarily associated with ice, it’s also occasionally found in sections of relatively open water, particularly during periods of seasonal ice melt or when migrating. The mammal’s a strong swimmer, and is capable of covering significant distances in search of food or new territory.

The remarkable Leopard Seal isn’t simply another carnivore, it’s also an apex predator in the regions it inhabits. It evolved to thrive on a highly varied diet, including such prey as krill, fish, squid, and other marine animals. It’s especially known for preying on penguins and even other seals.

Except during the breeding season, this powerhouse remains a primarily solitary animal. Breeding occurs on the icepack. Females typically give birth to a single pup each year after an 11-month gestation period. Birth also takes place on the ice, with pups being weaned after about a month.

Sei Whale

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Sei Whale Facts

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Sei Whale Physical Description

The magnificent Sei Whale easily impresses those individuals fortunate enough to view one of the marvels. Unlike some creatures, however, they do so for more than just one reason. This true masterpiece of evolution garners attention due to both its beauty and sheer physical measurements.

Like many of its relatives around the world, it also clearly displays a degree of the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism. In its specific case, that trait manifests itself in terms of pure size. More precisely, females of the species attain a greater size than their male counterparts.

Intriguingly, sizes of both genders varies depending upon what portion of its range they live in. Overall, though, the males of the species attain a maximum average length of approximately 61 ft (18.6 m). In the same region of the globe, females reach an average length equaling 64 ft (19.5 m).

Weights also vary between the different portions of its range, in both genders. But, in general, individuals weight between 33,069 – 44,093 lb (15,000 – 20,000 kg). Exceptional individuals do occur, of course, regardless of gender. Few exceed these sizes by any great amount, though.

In terms of appearance, both sexes of the marvelous Sei Whale present the same general color scheme to the observer. The majority of the body displays a dark, steel gray hue. The underside, though, often presents small, irregular white or light gray markings, as well as sometimes the front.

The beak of the impressive creature usually develops as highly pointed in shape. The pectoral fins of the animal also develop as comparatively short. Each of these appendages further displays a sharply pointed tip. The animal also possesses a pair of blowholes, just like most other baleen whales.

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Sei Whale Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The intrepid Sei Whale evolved as native to an extraordinary range of the marine waters of the world. That’s due to the fact that it appears to presently inhabit most oceans of the earth, as well as adjoining seas. The animal does, though, generally avoid both tropical and polar waters.

Like many of its relatives, it additionally engages in seasonal migrations. Individuals typically relocate from colder to warmer regions for winter, and cooler one’s for summer. Even today, however, researchers remain uncertain of the precise routes the amazing whales take.

The majestic cetacean also displays decidedly strong and clear preferences in its choice of precise habitat. Due to this pattern, the vast majority of sightings occur in deeper marine regions. Individuals rarely stray into shallower regions near shore, or even semi-enclosed bodies of water.

Most commonly, this marvel of the seas travels singly. Small pods do form sometimes, though these usually remain quite temporary. When such groups form, they rarely exceed six individuals. Researchers still know very little about the social structure of such small short-term groups.

The captivating Sei Whale evolved as a filter feeder, again like many of its numerous relatives. Each specimen consumes an astounding average of 2,000 lb (907 kg) of food per day. Its filtering action primarily catches vast quantities of zooplankton, along with a small number of tiny fish.

Mating typically occurs in either temperate or subtropical waters during the winter period. Females typically give birth to a single calf, most commonly every 2 – 3 years. Both genders reach sexual maturity at 8 – 10 years of age. A typical lifespan for both sexes measures roughly 65 years.

Southern Elephant Seal

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Southern Elephant Seal Facts

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Southern Elephant Seal Physical Description

The remarkable Southern Elephant Seal never fails to impress and amaze those people fortunate enough to view one of these wonders. Like many of its kindred, though, it does so for several reasons. The awesome animal boasts both an intriguing appearance and astonishing physical size.

It also stands out in that particular regard, as well. This stunning pinniped displays what’s likely the greatest degree of the phsyiological trait of sexual dimorphism of any extant mammal! In its specific case, this particular characteristic manifests itself in terms of sheer body measurements.

That’s true since males of the fascinating species attain an average body mass equaling 5 -6 times that of their female counterparts! Their close cousins, the Northern Elephant Seal, follow a similar pattern. Among that species, though, males only reach 3 -4 times the mass of the females.

The males of this species, however, also known as bulls, typically range in weight from a truly astounding 3,300 – 8,200 lb (1,500 – 3,700 kg). Yet the females merely manage masses averaging from approximately 770 – 1,980 lb (350 – 900 kg). That’s still quite impressive itself, though!

But it’s not just the weight of this breathtaking creation of Nature and evolution that draws attention. It’s also possessed of a lengthy body, as well. Being smaller, females average 8.5 – 9.8 ft (2.6 – 3 m) in length. The males, meanwhile, have mean lengths measuring 14 – 19 ft (4.2 – 5.8 m).

Otherwise, the genders of the breathtaking Southern Elephant Seal present the same general appearance to the observer. The fur of newborn specimens shows as black, while that of adults displays a mix of brown and gray. Yet, among older individuals, this has a leather-like texture.

The animal also possesses the highly enlarged proboscis, though it’s still notably smaller than its cousin. Its eyes evolved as deep black, rounded, and comparatively large. Its hind limbs merge into the tail and fin, while each of the fins that serve as feet has five long, slightly webbed fingers.

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Southern Elephant Seal Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The stunning Southern Elephant Seal evolved as native to a comparatively remote range of the earth’s surface. That precise zone of habitation it inhabits likely won’t surprise many people, though. That’s because, as its name implies, it developed as native to the earth’s southern areas.

In point of fact, it possesses a circumpolar distribution. It’s principally found on numerous subantarctic islands. These include such remote locations as Prince Edward Island and the Falkland Islands. In other parts of its range, this includes Macquarie Island and the Auckland Islands.

This decidedly impressive creation of Nature and evolutionairy processes dwells in a harsh, normally extremely inhospitable environment. Most individuals spend the vast majority of their time at sea. There, it lives in open areas of the ocean, and even resting by floating on the surface.

When swimming, however, most examples of this wonder frequently spend much of their time within a specifc depth range. These average specimens both swim and hunt at depths that range from 1,300 – 3,300 ft (400 – 1,000 m). Exceptional one’s though, dive as deep as 7,835 ft (2,388 m).

Like its multiple relatives across the world, the mighty Southern Elephant Seal evolved as a pure carnivore. Its primary prey consists of quantities of fish and small squid. In this, it seems to be a purely opportunistic hunter, consuming any species of either it can manage to catch and consume.

In turn, its own predators understandably remain comparatively few in number, due to its impressive size. Very young individuals sometimes fall victim to Orcas. Among adults, however, the Great White Shark comprises one of the few natural hunters it needs fear on a regular basis.

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5 Amazing Mammals of Antarctica

We sincerely hope that each of you thoroughly enjoyed reading, and hopefully learning something from, this article we’ve written about these 5 Amazing Mammals of Antarctica. It’s also our hope that doing so has left you with either a new or renewed appreciation for such wonders of Nature.

Unfortunately, however, many other species around the world now find themselves facing strong threats to their continued existence as a species. Many of those various dangers, in fact, stem from the actions of mankind. We must each do everything we can to protect and preserve them all.

Check out our other articles on 3 Beguiling Birds of Europe, Wisent, Perito Moreno Glacier, Powder Blue Damselfly, Bird’s Foot Violet, Hellbender Salamander, 5 Awesome Australian Lepidoptera











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