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. Habitat Leptonychotes weddellii live in arctic regions on fast ice areas and in the sea. They don't migrate and local movements are caused by changes in ice conditions. Ice areas where the seals dwell are usually flat icy plains.