The Caspian seal is endemic to the Caspian Sea. Whelping occurs in the northern basin in waters controlled by Russia and Khazakstan. Natural History Adult Caspian seals are typically 130-140 cm long and may reach 180 cm. They average 50-60 kg and may be as heavy as 86 kg. Newborn pups are 67-79 cm and weigh ca.
Pups are silvery-grey at birth.
Diet is primarily fish, including freshwater species captured in estuaries, and crustaceans. Status Entered in the IUCN Red Data List as Vulnerable, a number of national and international agencies have expressed concern recently about the poor condition, low reproductive success and high mortality of Caspian seals. The most recent estimate of Caspian seal numbers was made in 1989, at which time they were estimated to number approximately 420,000. Threats to the species include competition for resources with commercial fishing interests, toxic pollution, habitat degradation and destruction, human disturbance, disease and commercial exploitation. Recent data indicate that Caspian seals are in poor condition and mass mortalities have been reported.