Seals — the common name of two families of mammals, polyphyletic group, previously charged along with walrus (Odobenidae) in some pinnipeds (Pinnipedia), which today is considered obsolete and excluded from systematics.
Seals called the representatives of the families sevusevu, or eared seals (Otariidae) and seals, or true seals (Phocidae). In both groups of both pairs of limbs transformed into flippers, armed with claws; rear flippers are directed backward. Eared seals probably evolved from a primitive bear-like, real — apparently, from a primitive mustelids. These seals do not have ears; the back flippers are used for locomotion in water. The eared seals to move in the water serve as forelegs and back in the water serve as rudders, and on land podgibayutsya forward and support the massive body. About 20 species from 12 genera.
Widespread; particularly abundant in Subpolar latitudes. Most types of forms on the ice rookeries (breeding and molting). Pregnancy usually lasts about a year.