Mirounga

Mirounga is a genus of seals commonly known as elephant seals. There are two extant species within this genus: Mirounga leonina, the Southern elephant seal, and Mirounga angustirostris, the Northern elephant seal. These are the largest of all seals.

Southern elephant seals are found in Antarctic waters and breed on subantarctic islands and the coasts of South America and Australia. Northern elephant seals inhabit the eastern North Pacific Ocean, breeding on islands and the coast of California and Mexico.

Both species are characterized by their massive size, particularly the males, who are significantly larger than the females. Adult males possess a distinctive proboscis, or nose, that resembles an elephant's trunk, which they use to produce loud roaring noises, especially during the breeding season. This proboscis is absent in females.

Elephant seals are deep divers, capable of reaching extreme depths in search of food, which consists mainly of fish and squid. They undergo a synchronized annual molt, during which they haul out on land in large colonies. This molting period is critical for shedding their skin and fur.

Reproduction involves intense competition among males for dominance and access to females. The breeding season is marked by aggressive battles between males, with the victorious bulls establishing harems. After a gestation period, females give birth to a single pup. Elephant seals are vulnerable to disturbances at their breeding sites and have historically faced threats from whaling. Conservation efforts have helped some populations recover.