New Zealand fur seal
The New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri) is a marine mammal native to the coasts of New Zealand. These seals are known for their thick fur, which helps keep them warm in cold waters. Adults typically weigh between 50 to 200 kilograms and can reach lengths of up to 2.5 meters. They are agile swimmers, often diving to depths of 200 meters in search of fish and squid.
New Zealand fur seals are social animals, often found resting on rocky shores or sandy beaches in large groups. They breed during the summer months, with females giving birth to a single pup after a gestation period of about 11 months. Conservation efforts have helped their populations recover, although they still face threats from habitat loss and human activities.