Once abundant on Kerguelen Island, after which the species is named, Antarctic fur seals are presently found in largest numbers on South Georgia. Smaller groups are also found on South Sandwich Islands, South Orkney Islands, South Shetland Islands, Bouvet, Marion Island, Crozet Island, Heard Island, McDonald Island and Macquarie Island.
Adult males are dark grey or brown and have frosted guard hairs on their manes.
Females and juveniles are medium grey, sometimes darker above, often with a creamy throat and chest, extending onto the sides and the back. A pale area is also visible on the flanks, along to the hindflippers. Light areas are also found on the face, muzzle and ears. Males arrive on the rookeries and maintain breeding territories. Experienced males may arrive earlier than young ones.