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Lobodon carcinophagus
Crabeater seals from a distance are hard to distinguish from leopard seals and Weddell seals, but ultimately has a very dog-like face (a longer snout than the Weddell, and much less reptilian looking that the leopard). It has a long body, which is over 2m long in adults, and typical pelagic markings (dark on top, light underneath). It has uniquely serrated teeth that interlock to form a sort of strain, which it uses to pick out krill and other things from the water. It actually doesn't eat crabs at all!
Found all around the Antarctic continent, usually hauled out on ice. We found a lot of them lying around on the ice between the South Shetland and South Orkney Islands.
Very abundant, a stark contrast to the Arctic sea ice where there was very little life (due to land-based predators). Often found them lounging around in pairs, and sometimes with Antarctic fur seals on the same floe.
5 Comments
Nice spotting and great information!
Thanks everyone :) Keith, we actually didn't see any orcas when we were in the sea ice (I had hoped to though!), so as far as I know, these guys napped undisturbed hehe ;D
Great shots Laura!
Nice spotting and information!
I hope that Orca's wouldn't Interrupt their tranquil sleeep :3 cute