Mammals of the WorldLeopard Seal
Hydrurga leptonyx
- Order
- Carnivora
- Family
- Phocidae
- Genus
- Hydrurga
- IUCN status
- LC
- Distribution
- Antarctica|South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands|Australia|Pitcairn|Brazil|Chile|Cook Islands|Falkland Islands|New Zealand|Saint Helena|South Africa|French Southern and Antarctic Lands
- Realm
- Marine
Other names: Sea Leopard
About this species
- Size
- Length 2.4–3.5 m, weight 200–600 kg
- Habitat
- Antarctic pack ice and coastal waters
- Range
- Surrounding seas, Subantarctic
The leopard seal is a large Antarctic predator that regularly reaches New Zealand as a migrant. Most records involve solitary animals. It has a long reptile-like head, powerful jaws and spotted underparts. Adults are commonly 2.5–3.5 metres long.
It is primarily associated with Antarctic pack ice but disperses into New Zealand waters. Animals can appear anywhere around the coast. It hunts penguins, fish, squid, krill and other seals. Individuals may remain near a harbour or beach for days.
The species is a Migrant under the NZTCS. It is legally protected in New Zealand. There is no dependable site, although animals visit Otago, Wellington and Waitematā harbours. Observe from a substantial distance.
Description: Wildlife of New Zealand guide, Wildlife of Everywhere (wildlifeofeverywhere.com)