Cape Fur Seals – Arctocephalus pusillus

The Cape Fur Seal, scientifically known as Arctocephalus pusillus, is a species of eared seal found in the cold waters of the Southern Hemisphere. These seals are highly adaptable and play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of their environments.

Description & Characteristics

Arctocephalus pusillus is a medium-sized seal with a robust body, a short, thick neck, and a relatively small head. The males are significantly larger than females, reaching a maximum length of 2.4 meters and weighing up to 250 kilograms, while females typically measure around 1.8 meters and weigh 100 kilograms. Their fur is typically a dark gray or brown color, but can vary in shade depending on the individual’s age and sex. The fur is dense and provides excellent insulation in the cold waters they inhabit.

Habitat and Occurrence

Arctocephalus pusillus primarily inhabits the subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans, extending from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at approximately 200 meters in depth. This encompasses the neritic zone, which includes the coastal waters and areas directly influenced by the land.

Taxonomy

The species Arctocephalus pusillus belongs to the Class: Mammalia, Order: Carnivora, and Family: Otariidae. This classification highlights its place within the animal kingdom as a mammal, specifically belonging to the group of carnivores, and more specifically the family of eared seals, which are characterized by their external ear flaps and their ability to rotate their hind flippers forward for walking on land.

Feeding

Arctocephalus pusillus is a carnivorous predator, primarily feeding on a variety of marine organisms. Their diet includes fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods, such as squid and cuttlefish. Their feeding strategy involves diving to depths of up to 200 meters to hunt their prey, relying on their keen senses of sight and hearing to locate their targets. Their powerful jaws and sharp teeth are well-suited for capturing and consuming their prey efficiently.