Southern Elephant Seal
The Southern Elephant Seal Mirounga leonina is a species of elephant seal native to the sub-Antarctic islands. It is the largest carnivore in the world and the largest of all seals, with males reaching lengths of up to 20 feet and weighing more than 8,800 pounds.
The Southern Elephant Seal is known for its massive size and the large, inflatable proboscis or "trunk" on the males, which gives them their name. The trunk is used to produce loud, roaring calls during the breeding season.
Southern Elephant Seals are a true marvel of adaptation, capable of diving to depths of over 5,000 feet in search of food. Their diet consists of squid, fish, and other marine invertebrates. While their populations were decimated by hunting in the past, they have recovered thanks to conservation efforts.
The Southern Elephant Seal is a powerful and iconic part of the sub-Antarctic ecosystem, a true giant of the sea.
Southern Elephant Seal
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
15 - 20 feet
(4.6 - 6.1 m)
Average Weight
4,000 - 8,000 lbs
(1,800 - 3,600 kg)
Average Life Span
20 - 22 years
Gestation Period
240 days
Did You Know?
The Southern Elephant Seal is the largest seal species in the world, with males weighing up to 8,800 pounds!
They are incredible divers and can hold their breath for over 2 hours while hunting for squid and fish deep underwater.
Southern Elephant Seals spend most of their lives in the ocean, only coming ashore to breed and molt.
Males have a large, inflatable proboscis, or "trunk," which they use to make loud roaring sounds during mating season.
These seals have a thick layer of blubber that helps them stay warm in the icy Antarctic waters.
Southern Elephant Seals are found in the Southern Ocean, around Antarctica and sub-Antarctic islands.
They can reach speeds of up to 13 miles per hour (21 km/h) in the water.
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