The female is mounted by the male from behind while her sides are held by his foreflippers. Quite often she is bitten on her neck while copulation occurs. Weddell seals move in slow humping motion on land as well as on ice. They swim at a speed of about 5 to 7 knots, using their fore and hind flippers. Drinking sea water as well as eating snow helps this seal meet its water consumption requirements.
Eating occurs underwater.
Fighting consists of continual chest contact, but is ceased when striking of chest, neck, or other areas occurs. Weddell seals sleep in the same position on the stomach or back for hours, but lying on their sides is most common. Vocalization occurs underwater for communication. Play fighting occurs commonly with subadults. The nails of the foreflipper are used for grooming the head, neck, upper sides, and chest.