Seals should always be viewed from a distance for the safety of you, your children or pets, and the seal. In the United States, regulations state that humans should keep a distance of 150 feet from seals to protect them from stressful interactions and ensure human safety as well.

If you see a seal on land that you think might be stranded, it’s best to call your local stranding response organisation. Trained volunteers will be sent out to observe the seal and determine whether it requires assistance.

Seals’ diets vary from species to species, though most eat a large amount of fish. Squid, molluscs, crustaceans, shellfish, and krill are also on the menu for some seal species. One standout species is the leopard seal, which hunts and eats penguins, seabirds, and other seals.

What’s the difference between a sea lion and a seal?

Seal lions are part of the “eared” group of seals with external ears, longer flippers, and a furrier appearance. “Earless” seals, on the other hand, have ears that are hidden beneath their skin and are known as “true seals.” Both belong to the natural group Pinnipedia but are members of different families.

Are seals related to dogs?

While seals and dogs share a common ancestor, their evolutionary paths diverged around 50 million years ago . This makes them only very distantly related, though they do still share similar traits, including their facial structures and the ability to bark.

How long can seals hold their breath?

Seals are most closely related to bears, weasels, otters, skunks, raccoons, and red pandas.

How long do seals live?

As semi-aquatic mammals, seals spend much of their time in water and often dive to find food. One fact about seals is that the elephant seal is a particularly talented diver who can hold its breath for around two hours . To do this, the seal slows its heart rate, stops breathing, and focuses blood flow to the brain, heart, and muscles.

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