In appearance, these creatures are among the most odd of any 

 on either land or sea, but they are more like the seal than any other 

 animal with which we are at all familiar. They have been found to 

 measure from eight to thirteen feet in length and to weigh from five 

 hundred to twelve hundred pounds. The extremely thick skin is 

 dark gray in color and gives, at first sight, the impression of bare 

 nakedness, although a close inspection may reveal a few scattered 

 bristles on its wrinkled surface. The flesh has been esteemed as of 

 excellent flavor, and this fact, combined with the value of the skin 

 for strong leather, and of the blubber for oil, has been largely in- 

 strumental in bringing about the decrease of their numbers. To- 

 day, fortunately, they are under state protection which encourages 

 the hope that there may be at least no further diminution of this 

 harmless and interesting family. 



An account of its peculiarities would be incomplete without 

 reference to its manner of feeding upon the seaweeds, grasses, and 



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