Let's learn about seals!
Why it is important to preserve marine life and help seal populations.
There are 33 species of pinnipeds alive today, most of which are known as
seals. Pinnipedia is made up of three main groups: The walrus, which is
the only living member of the family Odobenidae; the eared seals of
Otariidae, including numerous kinds of fur seal and sea lion; and the
earless seals, known as true seals or Phocidae.
Despite the name, earless seals have ears—they’re just hidden
beneath the surface of their skin. Pinnipeds can be found on every
continent on Earth, though most species occur in cold-water environments.
Thick layers of fat, also known as blubber, keep the animals warm, in
addition to dense fur. Walruses are the exception to the rule, as these
large, tusked pinnipeds have nearly hairless bodies.
Pinnipeds, commonly known as seals, have many different species. Most seal species inhabit the cold waters of the Southern and Northern Hemispheres. The animals mate and give birth on the shores and also escape to the beaches from predators such as killer whales and sharks. Here we can see pictures of different species of seals: Grey Seal, Harp Seal, Harbor Seal and Ringed Seal.
You Can Make a Difference for Marine Mammals and Ocean Health. Together with the Marine Mammal Center, you can symbolically adopt a released patient through their Adopt-a-Seal® program and help thousands of other animals get a second chance at life.