About the Elephant Seal

Named for their large size and the males’ distinctive snout, which resembles an elephant's trunk, Elephant Seals are among the largest pinnipeds in the world.

They are fairly common within their breeding areas and are known for their massive breeding colonies.

Elephant Seals have rebounded from historical hunting pressures and currently face fewer direct threats, although climate change poses a long-term risk.

Changes in sea temperatures and ice conditions can impact their breeding beaches and the abundance of their deep-sea prey.

Elephant Seal Photography

Mark Stratton

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Elephant Seals & Ship

Elephant Seals relaxing onshore with an expedition ship and Zodiac in the background in Hannah Bay, South Shetland Islands.

Jamie Lafferty

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Elephant Seal and King Penguin in South Georgia

Nothing shows the sheer size of a grown Elephant Seal than when pictured with a King Penguin (considered a large bird).

Jamie Lafferty

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Elephant Seal and King Penguin in South Georgia

Nothing shows the sheer size of a grown Elephant Seal than when pictured with a King Penguin (considered a large bird).

Jamie Lafferty

Rb King Penguins South Georgia Antarctica Jamie Lafferty Elephant Seal 913A4124 Copy 211

Elephant Seal and King Penguins

Elephant Seal around King Penguins on South Georgia

Where to see Elephant Seals

They breed on subantarctic and Antarctic islands, such as South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula.

Interesting facts about Elephant Seals

Male Elephant Seals are known for their violent clashes during breeding season when they fight for control over the harems of females.

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