Leopard Seal

See what it's like to encounter leopard seals in Antartica.

Amos Nachoum

What do you get when you combine a trip to the planet’s most remote continent, brutally cold conditions, and underwater encounters with hyperintelligent predators? The adventure of a lifetime. The location is Antarctica, and the creature is the leopard seal, a behemoth pinniped with a spotted coat and dragonlike face found only in these frigid waters, where they’ve carved out a fruitful existence plucking penguins off the ice.

If you’ve ever been in the water with sea lions or harbor seals, forget everything you think you know about diving with these marine mammals. Not only are leopard seals twice the size of a harbor seal, they are also the only species that stalks and kills warm-blooded animals.

National Geographic photographer Paul Nicklen has famously recounted his experiences with leopard seals, including an expedition in 2006 during which a 13-foot female became his constant companion, even capturing, killing and offering penguins to his camera’s dome port.

Leopard seals — said to be more leopard than seal — could undoubtedly turn a diver into chum with little effort, but there’s been only one fatal attack recorded.

Today, Antarctic diving expeditions to encounter and photograph these creatures are led by local operators.

Under the guidance of marine experts, you’ll learn the safest ways to interact before you slide into the water and come face to face with one of the most beguiling creatures in the sea.

LEOPARD SEAL FAST FACTS

Max Length:

Up to 11.5 feet

Max Weight:

Up To 1,000 Pounds

Life Span:

Up To 26 Years

Status:

Not listed as endangered or threatened

Fun Fact:

Leopard Seals Are Earless

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