Northern Fur Seal

The northern fur seal is an eared seal with a pointed muzzle, visible ear flaps, long foreflippers and exceptionally dense underfur. Adult males are much larger than females and develop a thick neck and shoulders. Females reach about 1.5m and 64kg, while males can approach 2.1m and 272kg. Colour ranges from grey-brown to nearly black (NOAA Fisheries species account). in documented populations.

Northern fur seals spend most of each year at sea, using rocky or sandy island beaches for breeding, resting and moulting. They are opportunistic predators of midwater fish and squid. Adult males defend breeding territories, while females alternate nursing ashore with feeding trips. Winter distribution stretches across the North Pacific, including waters south to Honshu (NOAA Fisheries species account). in documented populations.