Most warm-blooded predators have to hunt frequently. Cold-blooded predators like snakes can go days or even months between meals. . Some carnivores like the seal and the sea lion spend a lot of time hunting in the water. Pinnipeds are specially adapted to hunting in the water. They have torpedo-like bodies that help them shoot through the water, flippers for legs, and some have ears and noses that close up when they are under water.
Pinnipeds eat fish, crabs, and other marine animals.
The carnivore's niche in the community is to help control populations. Very young, old, or sick prey are most vulnerable to predators. Without predators, populations of animals like mice and deer would grow too large and sick animals might spread disease to other animals. By catching prey, carnivores help keep a balance in communities between producers and consumers.