In this article by Wildlife Informer titled “9 Animals Like Seals (How They’re Similar),” readers are introduced to a variety of animals that share similarities with seals. The article explores nine different species, including sea lions, polar bears, walruses, sea otters, bottlenose dolphins, beluga whales, dugongs, narwhals, and marine otters. From their appearance and diets to their habitats and predators, these animals exhibit resemblances to seals in many fascinating ways. Whether it’s the long tusks of a walrus or the playful nature of a sea otter, readers will discover the intriguing connections between these diverse marine creatures. So let’s dive in and explore these nine animals that are like seals!
Sea Lion
Sea lions, scientifically known as Eumetopias jubatus, are marine mammals that closely resemble seals. They are related to seals and share similar appearances and diets. Sea lions are larger than seals and are considered more fearsome hunters, particularly in the northern regions of the Pacific Ocean. Their diet primarily consists of fish, and they have even been known to cause troubles for fishermen. Sea lions can grow up to 10 feet in length and weigh over 2,000 pounds.
Polar Bear
Polar bears, scientifically known as Ursus Maritimus, are another animal that resembles seals in various ways. Like seals, polar bears are marine mammals that live in similar habitats. They also share a similar diet, hunting for fish and other marine mammals, including seal pups and adult seals. Polar bears are known as top predators in the Arctic region and are the largest bear species in the world, reaching just over 8 feet in length.
Walrus
Walruses, scientifically known as Odobenus rosmarus, are often mistaken for seals due to their resemblance. They share similar appearances, such as flippers and streamlined bodies. However, the most distinctive feature of walruses is their long tusks, which seals lack. Walruses thrive in the same polar areas as seals and have a similar diet consisting of crabs, fish, worms, and various shellfish. They can grow up to 4,400 pounds in size.
Sea Otter
Sea otters, scientifically known as Enhydra Lutris, are marine mammals that can be found in the same regions as seals. They have similar diets, consisting mainly of fish, shrimp, and water vegetation. Sea otters are known for their ability to survive in polar regions, just like seals. They also face similar predators, such as sharks and orcas. Unlike seals, sea otters are smaller and can reach lengths of around 5 feet and weigh up to 100 pounds.
Bottlenose Dolphin
Bottlenose dolphins, scientifically known as Tursiops, may not resemble seals physically, but they share similarities in their diets and habitats. These highly intelligent marine mammals have a diet similar to seals and feed on squid, shrimp, and fish. Bottlenose dolphins are among the most commonly spotted dolphins and are easily recognizable. They are often seen in aquariums or sanctuaries, and they can swim at speeds of nearly 12 miles per hour.
Beluga Whale
Beluga whales, scientifically known as Delphinapterus leucas, are smaller whale species that live in similar habitats as seals. They share the same Arctic region as seals and have similar diets and predators. Beluga whales belong to the White Whale family and can grow up to 18 feet in length. They hunt for fish and also forage for food. Predators such as polar bears and killer whales pose a threat to both beluga whales and seals.
Dugong
Dugongs, scientifically known as Dugong dugon, may resemble certain types of seals, especially when they are young. These marine mammals are similar in size and appearance to seals, and they also face similar predators. Dugongs thrive in warm waters and are native to regions of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They can weigh up to a ton and reach lengths of 14 feet. Dugongs are herbivores, often foraging for ocean vegetation and occasionally falling prey to sharks and killer whales.
Narwhal
Narwhals, scientifically known as Monodon monocerus, may look like seals from afar due to their size and appearance. However, they possess a distinct long tusk that sets them apart. Narwhals belong to the White Whale family, just like beluga whales, and can be found throughout the Arctic Ocean, where various types of seals also reside. They share a similar diet, featuring fish and squid, and are hunted by predators such as polar bears and orcas.
Marine Otter
Marine otters, scientifically known as Lontra felina, are marine mammals similar to seals. Like seals, marine otters thrive in ocean habitats, particularly off the Pacific coast of South America. While sea otters spend most of their time in the ocean, marine otters alternate between land and sea. They primarily rely on the ocean to hunt for fish, crabs, clams, and similar prey, and they make shelter along the shoreline. On land, they may eat other small mammals or scavenge for human garbage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several animals that closely resemble seals in various ways. The nine animals discussed in this article, including sea lions, polar bears, walruses, sea otters, bottlenose dolphins, beluga whales, dugongs, narwhals, and marine otters, share similarities with seals in terms of appearance, diet, habitat, and predators. Some of these animals, such as sea lions and walruses, strongly resemble seals, while others like polar bears and beluga whales share the same habitats as seals. Overall, these animals contribute to the diverse and fascinating marine life around the world.
