Bearded Seal (Erignathus barbatus) — Near Threatened Mammalia

Bearded Seal

Erignathus barbatus

Conservation Status

Near Threatened

Mammalia · Carnivora · Phocidae

About

The bearded seal, also called the square-flipper seal, is a medium-sized pinniped that is found in and near to the Arctic Ocean. It gets its generic name from two Greek words that refer to its heavy jaw. The other part of its Linnaean name means bearded and refers to its most characteristic feature, the conspicuous and abundant whiskers. When dry, these whiskers curl elegantly, giving the bearded seal a "raffish" look.

Fun Fact

Bearded seals are the largest northern phocid.

Quick Facts

Habitat

To be updated

Diet

Prey on these seals, sometimes overturning ice floes to reach them.

Lifespan

31 years

Threats

  • Habitat Change
  • Hunting and Collection
  • Climate Change

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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