World’s Largest Seal Quiz

Based on the information in the article, how does an elephant seal's movement differ on land compared to in the water?

• They are more agile on land and swim slowly in the water.

• They are clumsy on land but graceful and skillful in the water.

• They are equally fast on both land and in the water.

• They cannot swim and only hunt on land.

Why do male elephant seals arrive on land before females during the breeding season?

• To establish dominance and secure harems of females.

• To find food for the females and young pups.

• To molt before the females arrive.

• To wait for their newborn pups.

Why do elephant seals come on land? (Select two answers)

• To feed on fish found in shallow waters.

• To molt, shedding old skin and fur.

• To find mates and give birth.

• To escape from predators in the water.

How does an elephant seal obtain its food, and what foods are part of its diet?

• It dives deep into the ocean to hunt for squid, octopus, and fish.

• It feeds on small crustaceans it finds on the shore.

• It scavenges for food left by other marine animals.

• It feeds on seaweed and kelp.

Based on what you read in the article, are elephant seals in danger of becoming extinct today? Why or why not?

• No, they are thriving due to legal protections.

• Yes, because they still face major threats from hunting.

• Yes, because their population has declined due to predators.

• No, because they are naturally very good at surviving in extreme environments.

What unique feature do male elephant seals have that females do not?

• Larger teeth for fighting.

• A trunk-like nose called a proboscis.

• A thick layer of blubber.

• The ability to dive deeper.

How long can elephant seals stay underwater, according to researchers?

• Up to 30 minutes.

• Up to one hour.

• Up to two hours.

• Up to four hours.

What do female elephant seals do shortly after giving birth?

• They teach their pups to swim.

• They leave to find food for themselves.

• They nurse their pups for several months.

• They join other females to defend against predators.

When elephant seals molt, what happens?

• They lose weight before returning to the sea.

• They shed old skin and fur and grow new layers.

• They battle each other for territory.

• They gather in small groups for warmth.

Which of the following statements best describes the population status of northern and southern elephant seals?

• Both populations are increasing due to legal protections.

• Only the northern elephant seal population is increasing.

• Both populations are decreasing due to habitat loss.

• Only the southern elephant seal population is stable.