Pinnipeds
Flippered friends of the ocean
A group of semi-aquatic marine mammals that live in oceans around the world.
What makes them this type?
- Blubber for warmth
- Flippers instead of legs
- Webbed feet
- Streamlined bodies
- Air-breathing lungs
Examples
California Sea Lion Found on both coasts of North America, known for playful antics
Harbor Seal Common in coastal waters of Northern Europe and North America
Weddell Seal Lives in icy Antarctic waters, dives deepest of all seals
Motion Notes (for Animation & Drawing)
- Move slowly on land with flippers
- Dive deep for food using powerful swimming
- Use whiskers to navigate underwater
Learn More
Streamlined body for swimming
Blubber layer keeps warm in cold water
Fun Facts
- Pinnipeds can hold breath up to 2 hours!
- They have no external ears, just ear holes
- Some pinnipeds give birth on ice floes!