Weddell seal
The Weddell seal is a large marine mammal found primarily in the waters surrounding Antarctica. They are known for their distinctive rounded bodies and large, dark eyes. Adult Weddell seals can weigh between 400 to 1,200 pounds and can grow up to 11 feet long. They are excellent divers, capable of reaching depths of over 2,000 feet while hunting for fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Weddell seals are unique among seals because they can maintain breathing holes in the ice, allowing them to access air even in frozen environments. They are social animals, often seen resting on ice floes in groups. Their population is currently stable, but they face threats from climate change and human activities.