Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Leopard seal
Scientific name: Hydrurga leptonyx
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: PHOCIDAE
Group: Marine mammals
Shyness: Very shy
Safe distance: 50 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.12-31.01
Gestation: 274 jours
Births: 01.10-31.01
Habitat:
Coastal waters and Antarctic pack ice
Description:
The leopard seal is a large marine mammal in the family Phocidae, reaching up to 3.5 m in length and 600 kg in weight. It inhabits Antarctic pack ice and coastal waters, feeding mainly on fish, penguins and juvenile seals. During the breeding season, females give birth to a single pup on the ice, while males produce underwater vocalizations to attract mates and defend territory.
Recommended lens:
>=200 mm
Photography tips:
Position yourself at a safe distance on the ice or from a stable boat, shooting at eye level to capture its gaze and using a fast shutter speed to freeze splashes.
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