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However, attacks on humans are rare. Most human perceptions of leopard seals are shaped by historic encounters between humans and leopard seals that occurred during the early days of Antarctic exploration. [44] Examples of aggressive behaviour, stalking and attacks are rare, but have been documented. [45]
This is an accepted version of this page This is the latest accepted revision, reviewed on 7 January 2025. Taxonomic group of semi-aquatic mammals Pinnipeds Temporal range: Latest Oligocene – Holocene, 24–0 Ma Pre๊ ๊ O S D C P T J K Pg N Clockwise from top left: Grey seal (Halichoerus grypus), Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus), New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri), walrus ...
Because of these seals' shy nature and sensitivity to human disturbance, they have slowly adapted to try to avoid contact with humans completely within the last century, and perhaps, even earlier. The coastal caves are, however, dangerous for newborns, and are causes of major mortality among pups when sea storms hit the caves. [15]
Pinnipedia is an infraorder of mammals in the order Carnivora, composed of seals, sea lions, and the walrus. A member of this group is called a pinniped or a seal. [a] They are widespread throughout the ocean and some larger lakes, primarily in colder waters.
Because of these seals' shy nature and sensitivity to human disturbance, they have slowly adapted to try to avoid contact with humans completely within the last century, and, perhaps, even earlier. The coastal caves are, however, dangerous for newborns, and are causes of major mortality among pups when sea storms hit the caves.
In January 2023, media reports indicated that seals have been attacking humans in South Africa, particularly in Cape Town area. Scientists believed it was due to the presence of a brain-altering poison in the fish they consume. The poison affects their behaviour making them more aggressive towards humans.
Male elephant seals fighting at Piedras Blancas, California. Dominant male elephant seals arrive at potential breeding sites in spring, and fast to ensure that they can mate with as many females as possible. [18] Male elephant seals use fighting, vocal noises, and different positions to determine who will be deemed the dominant male.
Other human-introduced pathogens, including leptospirosis, have infected monk seals. [40] Human disturbances have had immense effects on the populations of the Hawaiian monk seal. Monk seals tend to avoid beaches where they are disturbed; after continual disturbance the seal may completely abandon the beach, thus reducing its habitat size ...