Weddell seals

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library

Weddell seals

Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii). Three- week-old pup (right) yawning, while lying with its mother on sea ice. Weddell seals are born singly. They have fine soft hair (lanugo) that turns to a dark thicker coat at about a month. They are born with their permanent dentition and after being breast fed for six weeks, feed on fish and squid. Weddell seals are found throughout the Antarctic, the majority of their social behaviour occurs in water. They have well developed eyes, which assist them in hunting for food and locating breathing holes in the ice. Photographed off Signy Island, South Orkney Islands, British Antarctic Territory

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6462440

© DOUG ALLAN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Antarctic Antarctica Atlantic Baby British Territory Carnivore Carnivorous Freezing Frozen Juvenile Lying M Ammals Mammal Mother Nursing Oceanic Playful Predator Predatory Sea Ice Seal Signy Island Snow South Orkney Yawning Young Leptonychotes Weddellii Weaning Weddell Seals

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a heartwarming moment between a Weddell seal mother and her three-week-old pup, as they rest on the vast expanse of sea ice. The adorable pup, still in its lanugo stage with fine soft hair, can be seen yawning playfully while nestled next to its protective mother. Born individually, these seals undergo a remarkable transformation within their first month as their coat thickens and darkens. Weddell seals possess well-developed eyes that aid them in both hunting for food and locating breathing holes amidst the icy terrain. While they are found throughout the Antarctic region, it is in the water where most of their social behavior takes place. These marine mammals rely on fish and squid for sustenance after being breastfed for six weeks. Photographed off Signy Island in the South Orkney Islands of British Antarctic Territory, this image showcases not only the beauty of nature but also highlights the unique characteristics of these fascinating creatures. With frozen surroundings serving as their habitat, Weddell seals navigate through an aquatic world filled with challenges and predators. The bond between this nurturing mother seal and her curious offspring reminds us of the wonders that exist within our natural world. It serves as a reminder to cherish and protect these incredible species living harmoniously amidst harsh conditions in Antarctica's icy realm.

MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.