Interacting with seals resting on ice
Seals aka rock sausages or blubber icicles are great to interact with when exploring the remote world of Antarctica. The goal is to get close enough were you can truly appreciate their size BUT ensuring they are comfortable and not disturbed in anyway. This is the key way to do your best in getting a great photo of this wild animal in its natural habitat.
The goal is to take some pictures that look something like this…
Slow and steady is key - along with remaining quiet with your voices as well as with the engines on your zodiac. However, each species of seal is different and will react differently to the same approaching technique.
Crabeater seal ~ the most timid and can be really easily disturbed if you are not careful. It could be they are on the menu for some larger marine mammal predators so they do get a little concerned when large things approach them
A zodiac with guests doing a great job interacting with a resting Crabeater seal on an ice floe
Leopard seals ~ Besides being absolutely amazing and complete bad-asses in the world of predators in Antarctica they do not fear much. They are an apex predator and show no signs of being afraid of humans. As a result they are not really concerned about us at all. However, they are a large predator and can get annoyed, which instead of simply swimming away to hide they can approach and be aggressive to boats - biting and tearing the air inflated tubes of a zodiac for example…
My colleague absolutely nailing how to interact with a leopard seal in Antarctica
At the end of the day proceeding with caution and constantly observing the animals behaviour is key to ensure zero to little negative impact is put on the animal while you are present.
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All stories & photographs are of my own work unless noted under the picture in question.
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Amazing what a privilege to get up close to these animals in their natural environment!
it is incredible! and addictive - HIGHLY ADDICTIVE
I can imagine!!
Nice job. So much hard work and effort put in the studying of a creature that is far across the globe. More like so na Geo wild shot, I hope we see a documentary of your research soonest, am looking forward to know more about seals.
Awesome post
Thanks, mate! I hope one day too... stay tuned
These pictures (especially the first one) are great. I would love to go to Antarctica one day. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks! I would highly recommend getting there :)
Interesting how they react different to the way you have to approach them. Seems like a general rule to not disturb animals when approaching. Must be a special feeling to approach and they "allow" you to get a good shot.
Absolutely. Slow and steady is key. When they are comfortable is when you get the best photos
Pristine photos. It is breathtaking beyond words. The capture of the smiling sweety has made an imprint in my mind and my heart. Not to mention all the other amazing and perfect scenes!!!!
It was a lucky shot and I love it too! Thanks :D
wow, love the photo's. I have grown up with seals, very intelligent and funny. although we have not seen one in our area for around 5 years now 😢.
glad you got to experience there fascinating nature.