Staring contest with Southern Elephant Seals

in #nature7 years ago

When you come across sleeping giants that can weigh over the 3,000kg | 6,000lbs mark, it’s a good idea to give them some space. This day, as I was exploring and setting up markers in order to ensure these animals had their personal room and this male, whom was sleeping one moment suddenly awoke. Now, when they stare at you they don’t blink. They don’t look around elsewhere.

Once they have spotted you.

It. Is. A. Stare. Down. Situation!


Understand?


Due to their natural foraging grounds being anywhere from 600m|1800ft to over 1,500m|4,500ft their eyes have evolved to be highly efficient in low light environments. For that reason when they are in, what we consider to be in 'natural light' conditions, their pupils are so huge that it throws off the depth perception. It could be the reason why the stare at you so intensely. It is always a good idea to give them a wide berth, which 15m|45ft is the what the IAATO guidelines state as the closet you may approach them.


IMG_3088.jpg
A young male awakening up from his slumber and spotting me…
click image to view full size.


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That could be a heart-stopping moment! Like being spotted by a young, male rhinoceros. What if he charges? Yikes!!

it could potentially be heart-stopping... it is rare they would charge unless you are incredibly close to them for some reason - less than a metre of so...

I suppose if you have no natural predator enemies, you get pretty confident. But, should anyone dare...

I would definitely not want to come across those in the wild!

oh you do! trust me - it's mesmerizing & an unforgettable moment when you do

What a moment to capture. I would be a little scared to be even 45 feet from this animal!

Really excellent and courageous work. Man you really have guts! Keep it on good shots.

thanks for the warning, I'll remember that the next time I see one ;-)

incredible, thanks for sharing

what a mouth! :D

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😂 A staring contest you can't win.

yep. spot on. you don't ever win that contest

i think you made him angry man , be honest what did you do :P ?

hahaha. that is just his "welcome to my beach" face

haha im sure it is ;)

Nice share. I think you live among animals more than wild humans :D