Half a year on land
Fur seals forage in the ocean, but they breed exclusively on land. They can spend up to half a year on beaches or rocky islets. This is not only the time of births and raising pups but also mating. Fur seals enjoy basking in the sun and resting on the shore.
Fur seals’ large, bare flippers are equipped with a special network of tiny blood vessels that efficiently release heat. Fur seals resting on the beach will lift their flippers on hot sunny days, either holding them up to the breeze or waving them like fans to cool down. Conversely, in cold water, a fur seal can stick its flippers above the surface and expose them to the sun for warmth.
Caring for their thick fur is also part of fur seals’ daily routine. Their hind flippers have flat claws, and thanks to their flexible spine, they have no trouble grooming their fur wherever it’s needed.
Unlike true seals, which only crawl on land, fur seals and sea lions can lift themselves up on their flippers and not only waddle but even run!
CZECH: Půl roku na souši
ZOOPRAHA.CZ
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171 00 Praha 7
Phone.: (+420) 296 112 230 (public relations department)
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