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South African fur seal

mammal
Also known as: Arctocephalus pusillus, Cape fur seal

Quick Summary

The South African fur seal, scientifically known as Arctocephalus pusillus, is a mammal belonging to the eared seal family, Otariidae. These seals inhabit islands off the coast of southern Africa and are characterized by their gray to brown or black fur with a chestnut-colored underfur. Males can reach lengths of about 2.5 meters (8 feet) and weigh up to 300 kg (660 pounds), while females are smaller, growing to about 1.8 meters (6 feet) and weighing up to 120 kg (265 pounds). Like other fur seals, they are gregarious and carnivorous, feeding on fish and other marine animals.123

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. fur seal
  2. Cape seal
  3. seal

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