Main Characteristics

South American Fur Seals have a body length between 1.4 and 2 m (4.6 - 6.6 ft) and they weigh between 30 and 200 kgs (66 - 440 lbs). Males are dark grey in colour and females are paler grey/brown. As males mature they develop a thick mane on their neck and shoulders.

Habitat

South American Fur Seals can be found around the coast of South America.

Diet

South American Fur Seals feed on a variety of fish, squid, crabs and shrimps. They will also occasionally feed on sea birds, such as penguins.

Breeding

South American Fur Seals have a gestation period of 11 - 12 months, which includes a period of delayed implantation, and they give birth to a single pup. At birth the pup weighs approximately 4 kgs (8.8 lbs) and they are weaned at around 12 months old, although some suckle for longer.

Females reach sexual maturity at 3 years of age and males at around 7 years of age.

Predators

Predators of the South American Fur Seal include sharks and killer whales. Also south american sea lions will prey upon youngsters.

Subspecies

South American Fur Seals have no subspecies

Interesting Facts

The current population of South American Fur Seals is estimated to be between 375,000 and 405,000 individuals.

Similar Animals

Antarctic Fur Seal
Subantarctic Fur Seal
New Zealand Fur Seal
Cape Fur Seal
Galapagos Fur Seal
Guadalupe Fur Seal
Juan Fernandez Fur Seal
Northern Fur Seal