Wildlife in Antarctica: The 4 Types of Seals You Will See on Your Antarctica Trip

Let's talk about seals… …those playful, sociable, intelligent creatures, who hunt and are hunted in various ecosystems around the world. On the Antarctic Peninsula, you’re likely to spot four different species of seals: weddell seals, crabeater seals, leopard seals, and fur seals. Possibly the most recognizable of the four, weddell seals are characterized by their large size and oversized eyes, which are perfect for spotting prey in deep, dark waters. You can spot crabeater seals thanks to their long, slender snouts. While their name may suggest otherwise, crabeater seals do not eat crabs; their specially adapted teeth enable them to strain krill from the water. Silvery in color and somewhat serpentine in shape, leopard seals are considered the predominant predator of Antarctica, behind the orca. Their large head houses a powerful jaw, while their long fore flippers provide tremendous agility when swimming, making them accomplished hunters. Unlike other seals in the Antarctic, fur seals have thick fur coats, as well as little heads and pointed earflaps. With extended front and hind flippers that enable them to walk on land, fur seals are somewhat comparable to sea lions. … And you thought penguins were the Antarctic’s main attraction! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ► Learn More about our Upcoming Antarctica Cruises for 2020 https://www.silversea.com/destinations/antarctica-cruise.html ►Find out more information about seals in Antarctica: https://discover.silversea.com/destinations/antarctica/lets-talk-about-seals-four-of-the-main-seal-species-in-antarctica/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Silversea Cruises, is recognised as an innovator in the ultra-luxury cruise industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, Silver Spirit and Silver Muse – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ships Silver Origin, Silver Explorer, and Silver Cloud, Silversea's itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, both Polar Regions and hundreds of fascinating destinations in between. Silversea is also looking forward to the launch of four new ultra-luxury ships: Silver Moon, Silver Dawn, and two Evolution-class ships. Browse Silversea's blog, Discover, and subscribe to receive the latest content directly into your inbox.