Ribbon Seal: The life of one of the most mysterious inhabitants of the Arctic

The ribbon seal (Ribbon Seal) is a unique inhabitant of Arctic and sub-Arctic seas. This species of seals stands out due to its unusual appearance and behavior, which makes it particularly interesting to biologists and nature enthusiasts. Ribbon seals are mainly found in the northern Pacific Ocean, including the Bering, Okhotsk, and Chukchi Seas. Let’s get to know this fascinating marine mammal better.

 

Appearance

The ribbon seal gets its name from the distinctive black-and-white stripes on its body. Adult individuals have four noticeable stripes: two wrap around the front flippers, one encircles the neck, and one around the torso. These stripes on the black fur make them easily recognizable among other seal species. Young individuals have a more uniform coloration, which gradually develops its characteristic stripes as they mature.

Adult males reach a length of about 1.8 meters and can weigh up to 90 kg, while females are slightly smaller — up to 1.7 meters and weighing about 70 kg. Ribbon seals have strong flippers that help them swim quickly and maneuver skillfully in the water.

 

Lifestyle and Habitat

Ribbon seals prefer Arctic waters, where they spend most of their lives on the ice. In winter, they can be found on drifting ice, where they breed and molt, while in summer, they migrate to more southern waters for feeding. They are solitary creatures and rarely gather in large groups, unlike many other seal species.

The main diet of these animals consists of fish such as cod and herring, as well as cephalopods and shrimp. Ribbon seals are excellent divers, capable of diving to depths of up to 200 meters in search of food.

 

Reproduction and Life Cycle

The breeding season of ribbon seals begins in late winter. Females give birth to one pup on the ice. The pups are born with fluffy white fur that helps them retain warmth in harsh Arctic conditions. They shed this fur after a few weeks as they start actively swimming and hunting.

The mother feeds the pup with fatty milk for about four weeks, after which it begins to feed independently and learns to catch food. Sexual maturity is reached at the age of 3–5 years, and the lifespan of a ribbon seal is about 25 years.

 

Threats and Conservation

Ribbon seals are not currently considered endangered, but their numbers depend on the state of sea ice, which is their primary habitat and breeding ground. Climate change and melting ice in Arctic regions pose a serious long-term threat to the survival of this species. Additionally, ocean pollution, fishing nets, and human industrial activities can also negatively affect their population.

There are several international organizations and agreements aimed at protecting Arctic species, including the ribbon seal. It is important to continue studying these animals and developing conservation measures to preserve their population for future generations.

 

Interesting Facts about the Ribbon Seal

• Ribbon seals are rare representatives of their group, with almost no interaction with humans, making them poorly studied animals.
• They can dive to depths of up to 200 meters in search of food, holding their breath for up to 15 minutes.
• Ribbon seals can swim at speeds of up to 24 kilometers per hour, making them one of the fastest among pinnipeds.
• They can molt right on the ice, remaining immobile for several weeks until their fur is completely renewed.
• Ribbon seals can play dead when caught in nets, displaying an unusual defense reaction that can help them escape danger.

 

Ribbon Seal on Ice