Antarctic Fur Seal

Arctocephalus gazella

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Carnivora · Otariidae

About

The Antarctic fur seal is one of eight seals in the genus Arctocephalus, and one of nine fur seals in the subfamily Arctocephalinae. Despite what its name suggests, the Antarctic fur seal is mostly distributed in Subantarctic islands and its scientific name is thought to have come from the German vessel SMS Gazelle, which was the first to collect specimens of this species from the Kerguelen Islands.

Fun Fact

Antarctic fur seals were hunted to near-extinction in the 19th century, but their population has rebounded so dramatically that millions now crowd South Georgia Island's beaches during breeding season.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Subantarctic islands

Diet

Piscivore

Lifespan

15-24 years

Threats

Contaminant Accumulation
Climate Change

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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