Pinnipeds
CHARACTERISTICS: Most live in cold water Closest relative is terrestrial bears; carnivores Legs modified to flippers
Dense fur; blubber Newborn Harp Seal
To land to reproduce & rest
Sea Lions
Visible external ears
Swim w/forelimbs Support weight on forelimbs
Hind limbs reversible Sexual Dimorphism Males much larger
Largest group of pinnipeds “True Seals” Harbor Seal, Harp Seal, Gray Seal, etc
No external ear Swim with hindlimbs; non- reversible Unable to support weight on forelimbs Male & female usually equal size
Large pair of tusks to search for inverts; both males & females
Whiskers act as “feelers”