The 22nd of March every year is the International Day of the Seal; which aims to promote the conservation of seals around the world!
Seals are known to be the “personalities” of the sea/moana; they are charismatic, curious, playful, and intelligent. They are often associated with (wo)man’s best friend – dogs, for their behavioral similarities.
Within the clade Pinnipedia, more commonly referred to as seals, are three families: Odobenidae (the walrus), Otoriidae (sea lions and fur seals), and Phocidae (true seals – such as leopard seals, elephant seals and harp seals).
“Pinniped” comes from the Latin “pinna” and “pedis” and translates to “feather-footed”, referring to the paddle-like fore and hind limbs of seals.
In New Zealand/Aotearoa, we are very fortunate to have three endemic seal species: New Zealand sea lions/pakake (found only in the south-east of Aotearoa), New Zealand fur seals/kekeno (found all over Aotearoa), and leopard seals/popoiangore (visit all over Aotearoa). We also are visited by a fourth seal: the mighty southern elephant seal/ihupuku.
It is no secret, which seal species I adore the most… Afterall, our sea lions are considered the rarest seal in the world for a reason.
Illustration: Peppermint Narwhal Creative.