faceseals

Faceseals are a family of semi-aquatic marine mammals belonging to the order Carnivora and the suborder Pinnipedia. This group includes seals, sea lions, and walruses. Pinnipeds are characterized by their streamlined bodies, blubber for insulation, and flippers adapted for swimming. They are found in oceans worldwide, with a particular abundance in polar and temperate regions.

The term "faceseal" is often used colloquially to refer to true seals, which are distinguished from eared seals (like sea lions) by the absence of external ear flaps. True seals have small, inconspicuous ear openings. They move on land by wriggling their bodies, as their hind flippers cannot be rotated forward. Their front flippers are shorter and used more for steering in the water, while their powerful hind flippers provide propulsion.

Faceseals exhibit a wide range of sizes, from the relatively small harbor seal to the massive elephant seal. Their diets consist primarily of fish and squid, though some species also consume crustaceans or even other marine mammals. They play a crucial role in marine ecosystems as both predators and prey. Reproduction typically occurs on land or ice, with females giving birth to a single pup annually. Pups are often born with a furry coat and are nursed by their mothers for a period before becoming independent.