About the Fur Seal

Antarctic Fur Seals are small, eared seals with a thick fur coat. Males are significantly larger than females and have a mane of longer fur.

Their populations have dramatically recovered from near-extinction due to sealing in the 19th century and are now quite numerous in their breeding areas.

While currently stable, they are still at risk from entanglement in fishing gear and potential competition for fish stocks.

Warming seas and reduced ice cover may alter their habitat and affect the availability of their prey, particularly fish and squid.

Fur Seal Photography

Mark Stratton

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Fur Seal mother and pup

A Fur Seal mother and pup in Elsehul, a bay along the north coast of South Georgia Island

Mark Stratton

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Fur Seal pups

Fur Seal pups are in King Hakkon Bay, Peggoty Bluff, South Georgia Island. 

Mark Stratton

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Adult Fur Seal

An adult Fur Seal on Deception Island in the South Shetland Islands on the Antarctic Peninsular.

Mark Stratton

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Zodiac Cruise observing a Fur Seal swimming

A Fur Seal was seen swimming at sea from an expedition Zodiac in Elsehul, a bay along the north coast of South Georgia Island

Where to see Fur Seals

They breed on various subantarctic islands, with large populations on South Georgia and the South Shetland Islands.

Interesting facts about Fur Seals

Antarctic Fur Seals are highly agile swimmers and can often be seen porpoising – jumping out of the water – when travelling at sea.

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