Erignathus barbatus
Mammalia · Carnivora · Phocidae
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.
Habitat
To be updated
Diet
Prey on these seals, sometimes overturning ice floes to reach them.
Lifespan
31 years