Leopard seal
Leopard seals are restricted to the southern hemisphere and while they are rarely seen on the New Zealand mainland, they do not breed here. The worldwide population is likely to be more than 200 000. Leopard seals are so named for their spotted coats and fearsome jaws. They are a long (up to 3.5m), slim seal (350kg or more) that must drag the body over the ground using a combination of the front flippers and body undulations. Their prey consists of a variety of krill, fish, birds and other seals. Little is known about their breeding though pups are likely born around November. They are generally unafraid and have at times been aggressive toward people.