SCS: Subantarctic Fur Seal (Arctocephalus tropicalis)
) and there is evidence of some
inter-breeding between these species at Marion and Macquarie Islands. Sharks and killer
whales are known predators.
Statistics
Adult males usually measure up to 1.8m in length and weigh
up to 165kg (average 131kg), while adult females are about 1.5m in length and weigh
approximately 50-55kg. Pups are born about 65cm long and weighing 4-5kg. Females reach
sexual maturity at 4-6 years of age, males at 4-8 years, although males do not achieve
territorial status until 10-11 years of age. Males of the species are known to live over
18 years, females over 23 years.
Photo: Michael Bryden,
University of Sydney
|
