Marine & Underwater Life
Antarctic seals
Jennifer encountered these seals during an Antarctic Peninsula expedition. The landing site and seal species shown in this photograph have not been confirmed.
Species overview
Several seal species occur in the Antarctic region. The species visible in Jennifer's photograph has not been confirmed, so the record remains deliberately broad.
Destinations where they may be seen
Antarctic seals may be seen at coastal, ice, and marine sites around the continent and nearby islands. Jennifer's documented encounter was on an Antarctic Peninsula expedition.
Best viewing considerations
Follow expedition staff, allow more than the general minimum whenever behavior or terrain requires it, and be especially cautious around territorial animals, mothers, pups, and moulting seals.
Where Jennifer encountered them
Jennifer encountered these seals during an Antarctic Peninsula expedition. The landing site and seal species shown in this photograph have not been confirmed.
Ethical viewing distance
IAATO's general visitor guidance calls for at least five meters from wildlife on land and more space when necessary, particularly around territorial fur seals. Expedition staff may require a greater distance.
Operator or setting
Wild Antarctic Peninsula expedition encounter.
Seasonal considerations
Species, breeding or moulting activity, sea ice, weather, landing access, and biosecurity restrictions vary by location and date.
Photography guidance
Use zoom, remain on the route set by expedition staff, and create more space if a seal raises its head, changes posture, vocalizes, or moves because of your presence.
Safety and biosecurity guidance
Never stand between a seal and the water. Follow guide instructions and allow additional room for territorial animals, mothers and pups, and animals moving through a landing area.
What is never guaranteed
A landing, seal sighting, species identification, behavior, proximity, and photograph are never guaranteed.
Conservation context
Antarctic Treaty visitor guidance prohibits feeding, touching, handling, or approaching seals in ways that alter their behavior.
Captive-versus-wild disclosure
Captive-versus-wild disclosure: wild encounter.
Gallery, videos, and related reading
Gallery: The verified photograph for this encounter is shown on this page.
Videos: No related BVG video is currently linked to this record.
Related destination: Explore Antarctica
Related article: Read Jennifer's related story