Much of the early exploration of Antarctica was because of the seal. Seals were hunted for their fur, skins and oil. -Some species like the Antarctic Fur Seal were made nearly extinct in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today there are six species of seal in the Antarctic region: the Weddell, Ross, Crabeater, Leopard, Southern Elephant and Fur seals. Seals are divided into two categories: 'eared' seals with furless hind flippers, which help them move about on land and sea; and 'true' seals, that have furry hind flippers that are used for swimming but must be dragged behind them on land. Seals eat at sea, locating krill, fish and squid with their large eyes and sonar.

Seals, Walrus and Sea Lions are PINNEPEDS which means they have flippers in place of legs.

Seal on South Georgia Island
(photo by Doug Stoup)

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SEAL WALLPAPER

COLOR A SEAL