The Northern Elephant Seal is the largest pinniped in the Northern Hemisphere, with bulls weighing up to 5,000 pounds and bearing the species' namesake inflatable proboscis used for amplifying their roaring displays. It nearly went extinct in the 19th century but has rebounded to over 100,000 animals, a remarkable conservation success. Elephant seals undertake two annual migrations totaling over 13,000 miles and dive to depths exceeding 5,000 feet.
Habitat
Pacific beaches for breeding; open ocean for foraging
Diet
Squid, fish, skates, and small sharks
How common
Uncommon
Recent Northern Elephant Seal sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Northern Elephant Seal? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant or animal and get an instant ID, rarity, and field notes — building your personal nature collection as you go.
Get Huck — free