Harbor seals swim using all four flippers

Can swim forward and upside-down

Swim up to 12 mph but usually swim at slower speeds

Dive to depths of 295 ft.

Can stay submerged for 15 to 28 min, dives usually last only 3 to 10 min.

They have a slower heart rate while diving. Heart rate slows to 4-6 beats from minute from the usual 75-120.

Have oxygen-conserving adaptations that allow them to dive deeply and stay underwater

The same cute little seal enjoying the water

Has a greater volume of blood than a land mammal so it can retain more oxygen

Muscles have a high level of an oxygen binding protein that stores oxygen and prevents oxygen muscle deficiancy

Before a dive reduce the amount of air in its lungs. Oxygen is stored in the blood and muscle tissues.

Have thick blubber to insulate