Bearded Seal

Erignathus barbatus

Bearded seals are friendly animals that love to swim in cold ocean waters. They have whiskers that look like beards, which help them feel around in the water.

Appearance

The Bearded Seal is a large, robust seal with a relatively small head. It has short, brownish-gray fur and famously long, pale, bristly whiskers that resemble a shaggy beard. Its powerful body tapers to broad hind flippers.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderCarnivoraFamilyPhocidaeGenusErignathus

Bearded Seal

Interesting facts

Pups are born with a furry coat that helps them float on water easily!

Their scientific name, *Erignathus barbatus*, means 'deep-jawed bearded one'.

They hum and trill underwater, making unique, echoing songs!

Unlike other seals, they use all four flippers to swim slowly underwater.

Special abilities

Bearded Seal can use its thick skull and powerful fore-flippers to break through ice for breathing holes.

Bearded Seal can hold its breath for long periods, allowing it to dive deep to find food below the surface.

Measurements & details

Length: 210-270 cm
Weight: 200-360 kg
Lifespan: 20-25 years
Top Speed: 10 km/h
Litter Size: 1
Gestation: 240-330 days

Diet & Feeding

They munch on small creatures found on the seafloor, like shrimp, crabs, and bottom-dwelling fish.

Primary Foods

shrimp
crabs
clams
cod
flatfish
octopus

Foraging Method

Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Polar Bear

Ursus maritimus

Major predator hunting seals on the ice.

hunts

Killer Whale

Orcinus orca

Marine apex predator, occasionally hunts seals.

eats

Arctic Cod

Boreogadus saida

Common fish prey found on the seafloor.

eats

Snow Crab

Chionoecetes opilio

Crabs are a favorite food of these seals.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Furry

Find adorable animals covered in a cozy coat of soft fur! Their fur helps them stay warm and protected in different environments.

Whiskered

Look for animals with cool whiskers, which help them feel their way around and understand their world!

Social

Discover creatures that love to live and work together! These animals form groups, helping each other find food, stay safe, and raise their young.

Piscivorous

Discover amazing animals that love to eat fish! They're like expert underwater hunters, always on the lookout for a tasty meal from the rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Coastal

Discover life found along the edges where land meets the sea! These habitats are always changing with the tides and waves, offering unique environments.