Main Characteristics

Antarctic Fur Seals have a body length between 1.2 and 2 m (3.9 - 6.6 ft) and they weigh between 25 and 210 kgs (55 - 463 lbs). As pups, they are black, but as they mature they develop a grey/brown colouration and females usually have a lighter coloured chest.

Habitat

Antarctic Fur Seals can be found in the Antarctic and subantarctic waters.

Diet

Antarctic Fur Seals mainly feed on krill, but they will also eat fish and squid. They usually feed at night at depths of 30 - 40 m (98 - 131 ft) but they have been known to dive as deep as 250 m (820 ft).

Breeding

Antarctic Fur Seals have a gestation period of 12 months, which includes a period of delayed implantation, and they give birth to a single pup. The pup is weaned at 4 months old and they reach sexual maturity at 3 - 4 years old.

Predators

Killers Whales are predators of Antarctic Fur Seals and leopard seals will prey upon their pups.

Interesting Facts

Antarctic Fur Seals are also known as:
Kerguelen Fur Seal