Arctocephalus australis, commonly known as the South American fur seal, is a species of fur seal found in the Southern Hemisphere. These marine mammals are characterized by their thick, dense fur and their relatively small size compared to other seal species. They are highly social animals, often forming large colonies on land for breeding and resting.
Description & Characteristics
Arctocephalus australis is a relatively small fur seal species. Adult males typically measure around 1.8 meters in length and weigh up to 150 kilograms. Females are significantly smaller, averaging around 1.4 meters in length and 50 kilograms in weight. Their distinctive features include their thick, dense fur, which ranges in color from dark brown to grayish-brown, and their short, pointed snouts. They also have large, expressive eyes and prominent whiskers.
Habitat and Occurrence
Arctocephalus australis is found primarily in the waters surrounding the South American continent, including the Falkland Islands, South Georgia Island, and the coast of Chile and Argentina. These seals are highly adapted to living in cold, temperate waters and typically inhabit coastal areas, rocky islands, and beaches. They are commonly found in the neritic zone, which extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf, and the epipelagic zone, which encompasses the upper layer of the open ocean. Their distribution and occurrence are primarily determined by the availability of food, breeding grounds, and suitable haul-out sites.
Taxonomy
Arctocephalus australis belongs to the Class: Mammalia, Order: Carnivora, and Family: Otariidae, which includes all fur seals and sea lions. These animals are distinguished from true seals (family Phocidae) by their external ear flaps and their ability to walk on land using their flippers.
Feeding
Arctocephalus australis are carnivorous animals that primarily feed on a variety of fish, squid, and crustaceans. Their diet varies depending on their location and the availability of prey. They are opportunistic feeders and will consume whatever is most abundant in their environment. They typically hunt in shallow waters near the coast, diving to depths of up to 200 meters to capture their prey.
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