Bearded Seal

Bearded Seal.

Name

  • Common name: Bearded Seal
  • Scientific name: Erignathus barbatus
  • Order: Carnivora
  • Family: Phocidae
  • Indigenous names for this species may be available through the Yukon Native Language Centre

Viewing opportunities

The waters off the North Slope of the Yukon and Herschel Island are the only place where you’ll spot these marine mammals.

Description

  • Very large seal with large eyes.
  • Conspicuous moustache composed of very long whiskers gives it its name.
  • Sometimes referred to as ‘square flipper’ because the fore flippers are unusually large.
  • Darker brown coat.

Fast Facts

  • Length: 2.5 m
  • Weight: 350 kg
  • Lifespan: 15 years
  • Predators: Polar Bears, Orcas
  • Habitat: Marine and Coastal

Conservation status

What is conservation status?

  • Yukon: S4 (Apparently Secure)
  • Global: G4G5 (Apparently Secure/Secure)

Yukon population estimate

Not determined.

Behaviour

All Yukon seals are phocids or “true seals”. They are sometimes called “crawling seals” because they do not “walk” on their flippers like sea lions, but rather waddle on their bellies when on land. Bearded Seals are not social and are seldom found in large groups. They are curious seals that are easily attracted. They do not undertake long migrations but sometimes can be carried large distances on sea ice.

Diet

Mollusks, crustaceans, octopuses, and bottom-dwelling fish

Distribution

Bearded Seal distribution map

Seals and people

  • Marine mammals have long been a staple in the diet of Inuit peoples.
  • Their skin is tough and warm making excellent clothing that is waterproof.