A marine mammal of the Otariidae family native to the southern coastal regions of New Zealand and southern Australia, characterized by its distinctive fur coat and marine adaptations.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Rocky coastal areas, offshore islands, and marine environments along the southern coastlines of New Zealand and Australia, typically inhabiting regions with cold temperate waters and abundant marine food sources.
Ecological Role
Critical predator in marine ecosystems, controlling fish and squid populations, and serving as an indicator species for marine environmental health and climate change impacts.
Morphology
SKIN COATDense, water-resistant fur with multiple layers providing excellent thermal insulation in cold marine environments
LIMBS WINGSPowerful flippers for efficient marine locomotion, with rear flippers capable of rotating underneath body for terrestrial movement
HEAD SENSORYLarge eyes, acute hearing, and pronounced vibrissae (whiskers) for enhanced underwater navigation and prey detection
BODY STRUCTUREStreamlined marine mammal, approximately 1.5-2.0 m in length, weighing between 70-180 kg, with robust muscular build adapted for swimming
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Mirko Thiessen
