The skulls of many species tell of a close relationship with carnivores. Their heavy snouts and over-sized canines are reminiscent of a Polar Bear's. The skulls of many species are crowned with a large sagittal crest. Many also possess strong zygomatic arches which convey the powerful jaws of animals sometimes deemed Water Bears. This order is made up of the world's 34 Seal, Sea Lion, and Walrus species.
Pinnipeds are aquatic and occupy most oceans and seas.
Living in cold or warm water, they must have some attachment to land for breeding and giving birth. They are strictly carnivorous with a diet of Krill, Mollusk and Fish. They vary in size from the Russian Seal, measuring 120cm and weighing 25kg to the huge Southern Elephant Seal measuring 600cm and weighing up to 5,000kg. The skulls of many species tell of a close relationship with carnivores. Their heavy snouts and over-sized canines are reminiscent of a Polar Bear's.