1. Pinnipeds

2. CHARACTERISTICS:
Most live in cold water
Closest relative is terrestrial bears; carnivores
Legs modified to flippers

3. Dense fur; blubber
Newborn Harp Seal

4. To land to reproduce & rest

5. Sea Lions

6. Visible external ears

7. Swim w/forelimbs
Support weight on forelimbs

8. Hind limbs reversible
Sexual Dimorphism
Males much larger

9. Largest group of pinnipeds
“True Seals” Harbor Seal, Harp Seal, Gray Seal, etc

10. No external ear
Swim with hindlimbs; non- reversible
Unable to support weight on forelimbs
Male & female usually equal size

11. Large pair of tusks to search for inverts; both males & females

12. Whiskers act as “feelers”