Adult Weddell seal (Leptonychotes weddellii) hauled out on ice near the Antarctic Peninsula, Southern Ocean, Polar Regions

weddell seal leptonychotes weddellii ice southern ocean antarctic peninsula polar regions wildlife marine mammal cold habitat resting ice floe antarctica animal behavior ocean nature snow seal icebergs landscape surface marine life ecosystem adaptation climate mammal coastal travel pristine tranquil environment aquatic habitat polar ice coast isolation winter chilly serene flora fauna underwater conservation natural beauty exploration outdoors cold climate snow cover frozen resting position