Caribbean Monk Seal - Reproduction and Longevity

Reproduction and Longevity

Caribbean monk seals had a long pupping season, which is typical for pinnipeds living in subtropical and tropical habitats. In Mexico, breeding season peaked in early December. Like other monk seals, this species had four retractable nipples for suckling their young. Newborn pups were probably about 3.3 ft (1 m) in length and weighed 35-40 lbs (16–18 kg) and reportedly had a sleek, black lanugo coat when born. It is believed this animal's average lifespan was approximately twenty years.

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