Weddell Seals are an example of ‘True Seal’ and are native to Antractica. These aquatic animals have the most southerly distribution of any mammal. These animals are known to be docile and placid, and can be approached easily.

Scientific Name – Leptonychotesweddellii

Classification – Leptonychotes

Gender Names – Male – bull; Female – cow; Baby – pup

Collective Noun – Herd, pod, rookery, harem

Length/Size – 2.5-3.5 m (8.2-11.5 ft)

Weight – 400–600 kg

Top Speed – 10km per hour (swimming speed)

Life Expectancy – years; up to *** in captivity

Mating Season – Mid-September–December

Gestation Period – 9-10 months

Special Features – They are able to hold their breath for about five minutes giving them the ability to dive up to 100 m (330 ft)

Social Structure – Usually live in small groups near ice cracks or holes, or at times in large groups on ice bergs attached to the continent

Geographical Distribution – Southernmost ranges of the Antarctica

Natural Habitat – Huge sheets of fast ice (sea ice attached to land) and on pack ice

World Population – 800,000

Conservation Status – Least Concern

Diet – Different fishes, squids, octopuses, prawns and crabs

Predators – Killer whales, Leopard seals