Arctic Bear Seal

Basic Information

Anatomy

The Arctic Bear Seal looks in many ways, like a white leopard seal with a larger head and longer snout. They are typically between 12 and 15 feet long, with short, waterproof fur over their entire bodies.

Ecology and Habitats

As their name suggests, these seals are native to the Arctic. They primarily spend most of their lives in the freezing ocean water, coming on land to rest, mate, and give birth, or occasionally eat carrion.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Arctic Bear Seals are obligate carnivores, with fish making up the bulk of their diet. They will also feast on shellfish, seabirds, small dolphins and juvenile whales, or anything else that they can manage to kill. Due to their harsh environment, they are also known to scavenge and will eat any carrion available. In areas where their ranges cross, these seals will compete with Needlecoat Wolves, and feast on them as well should they kill one.
They primarily hunt by using speed and ambushing their prey, waiting on ice flows and icebergs for something to pass in the water below them, and will leap into the water and give chase. Land bound prey that comes too close to the water may be in for a surprise, as Arctic Bear Seals are known to lunge fully out of the water, and using their tremendous strength, pull the unsuspecting animal under and drown it.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Arctic Bear Seals are not commonly hunted for food, most often, those that are killed by people are done so because they are seen as a threat by fishermen and locals of small towns. This is done under the idea that they drive away the fish, and create poor catches. It is quite the opposite however, as the bear seals keep their populations in check, and keep other, smaller predators, from over hunting. Unfortunately, areas where fishermen killing them is common see much poorer catches and further blame the seals, keeping a constant cycle going.

Scientific Name

Ursus maritimus sigillumfalsum

Origin/Ancestry

Arctic

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Average Length

12 to 15 feet

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

White, pale cream, or light grey, with black gums and noses