Bearded Seal [Erignathus barbatus]
Description
The Bearded Seal is a medium-sized species of seal that is found in and around the Arctic Ocean. They are named for the distinctive whiskers or 'beard' that are especially prominent in males. They have a grey or brown coat, and can reach lengths of 2.1 to 2.7 meters and weigh between 200 and 430 kilograms. They are solitary creatures, spending most of their time alone except during the mating season. Bearded Seals are benthic feeders, diving to the ocean floor to feed on a variety of prey, including clams, squid, and fish.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Mammals
Mammalia
|
| Order |
Carnivorans
Carnivora
|
| Family |
Earless Seals
Phocidae
|
| Genus |
Bearded Seal
Erignathus
|