Leopard seals are the second heaviest species of seals in the world. They can weigh up to 300-551 kg and are one of the most aggressive predators, which is why they rarely get preyed upon by other animals. Their scientific name is Hydrurga Leptonyx.
Leopard Seals have black or grey fury skin with dotted pattern just like the Leopard itself. They can grow up to 3.2m long, making them the second largest seal species after the Elephant Seals. With long sharp flippers, the Leopard Seal can easily swim under water. They have long whiskers which helps to sense their predators. They also have big brown eyes which helps them to see whilst hunting their prey.
With speeds up to 69kmph, the Leopard Seal is considered to be the fastest seal species in the world. Leopard Seals have long sharp flippers which they use to pull their body on land and help them with paddling in the water. They use their big black tail to help propel them faster as they swim.
Leopard Seals are carnivorous animals as they only eat meat. They can eat up to 20kg's of food a day. Being the fastest seal species, the Leopard Seal can easily hunt and catch food on land and water. They feed on Krill, Penguins, Squid, Sharks and Crabeater Seals. Being such an aggressive predator makes Leopard Seals nearly on top of the Antarctic food chain, but unfortunately they get preyed upon by Killer Whales and Humans. Mankind are the biggest know threat to leopard seals because they hunt them for their oils and fury skin.
Leopard Seals are found on pack-ice and in warm seas where they can easily find food. They can only be found on the Antarctic Peninsula in summer and at the Banana Belt where the temperature is warmer. They spend most of their time in the water, but move to land when it’s breeding season.
In breeding season, the Leopard Seals come together in small groups to mate. After that, the female digs a large hole that she can stay in for the 9 months of pregnancy. When the pup is born, the mother feeds and protects it until it’s large enough to feed and take care of itself.
Leopard Seals are a precious gift to the world because they are a unique and interesting animal. They are vital to the Antarctic food chain and ecosystem, therefore they must be preserved by humans so that future generations can enjoy them too.