An encounter from another world. In the harsh, unforgiving waters of Antarctica, our cofounder paulnicklen captured this footage of a leopard seal. The only species in their genus, leopard seals are apex predators of Antarctica, rivaled only by orcas. Their spotted, slender bodies can reach 12 ft (3.5m) long, making them built for stealth and speed to ambush penguins, fish, and even other seals. Their diet is surprisingly versatile. When larger prey is scarce, they filter-feed on krill, using specialized teeth to strain the tiny crustaceans from the water, much like whales. In fact, krill usually makes up the vast majority of a leopard seal’s diet. Unlike most seals, leopard seals are solitary animals and fiercely territorial. They’re also known for their strange, otherworldly songs, which can travel for kilometers beneath the ice. Scientists believe these vocalizations help them communicate, defend their territory, and find mates. #OceanSchool #LeopardSeal #Antarctica #Explore