Library Activity Package: Antarctica
Ross Seals
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© Dr Mike Cameron, National Marine Mammal Lab, USA.
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This seal takes its name from James Clark Ross, a commander in the British Navy who spent four years exploring the Antarctic region. Curiously, it is the females that are the larger of the species, growing to lengths of about 2.5 metres. While many of the other seal types are similar in appearance, Ross seals stand out quite significantly. They have small heads, short snouts and small mouths. Unlike other seals of Antarctica, they also have very short hair and a distinct streaked pattern on the sides of their neck and throat, which often looks like a mask.
Elephant Seals
These are the largest of the seals inhabiting Antarctica. Southern elephant seals can grow up to three metres long and weigh a massive 800 kilograms.
© ReadyEdPubThese l i ca t i ons large mammals love lying around and usually huddle together •f orr evi ew pur po s eso nl y• for warmth. They have rather bad
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© Patrick Boss, Australian Antarctic Division.
body odour and are more than happy to lounge around on ice floes making odd noises and smells. They feed on krill, squid, fish and even small sharks.
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Much of the research carried out at the research stations involve the wildlife of Antarctica. Biologists and Zoologists are very interested to learn about the special adaptations that Antarctic animals have developed. These unique adaptations have enabled the various animal species to survive in extremely harsh conditions for millions of years. Very few lifeforms are able to survive the harsh conditions above the ice all year round. Scientists also study the Antarctic food web, ecosystem, animal populations, animal migration and habitats. In addition to studies on animals, researchers also explore environmental aspects that impact on the wildlife, such as pollution, water currents, the formation of sea ice in winter, ozone depletion and global warming.
Check out some super seal pictures at these websites: The Sights and Sounds of Antarctica: www.cybamuse.com/antarctica Antarctic Marine Life: www.aku-aku.com/stock/antarctica-marinelife.html 24