Pusa hispida hispida

Conservation status

Least concern

Like the harp seal, ringed seals live in ice-covered areas of the Arctic Ocean. They are the preferred prey of polar bears, but difficult to catch: these seals always bask near gaps in the ice or open water so that, if danger looms, they can make a quick getaway. Less agile on land, they are in their element in the sea: as skilful swimmers and divers, they prey on fish and crustaceans. Ringed seals are usually solitary, though they may sometimes be found in loosely organised groups; the pups are reared exclusively by the females.