Leopard Seal

The leopard seal is the second-largest seal species in the Antarctic and one of Birdland's most important marine citizens. Named for their spotted coat pattern, leopard seals are powerful predators that play a critical role in the Southern Ocean ecosystem.

Role in Birdland

While leopard seals maintain a complex relationship with penguin communities --- as natural predators --- Birdland's political framework recognizes all native species as citizens with representation rights. Leopard seals have observer status in Parliament and their populations are protected under the Wildlife Sovereignty Act.

Biology and Behavior

Leopard seals are solitary animals, typically found resting on pack ice or hunting along coastlines. They feed on a varied diet including krill, fish, squid, and smaller seals. Adults can reach 3.5 meters in length and weigh over 500 kilograms.

Conservation in Birdland

Leopard seals in Birdland waters carry the "Protected" status, which ensures their habitats are included in marine protection zone planning and their populations are monitored through the annual marine census.