126 A necdotal Natural History. 



ears. The orifice is not placed as we might think, 

 directly over the organ itself, but below, and rather 

 behind the eyes a passage running beneath the skin 

 to the ear jtself. 



The whiskers of the seal bear a very strong resem- 

 blance to those of the various animals of the cat tribe, 

 their bases being connected with sensitive nerves which 

 warn the animal of the slightest touch. It is thought 

 that these may be of service in the pursuit of prey. 



In order to protect the animal from the evil results 

 of continued immersion, the body is clothed in a 

 manner which effectually retains the vital heat. This 

 is done in a threefold manner. 



Beneath the skin is found a thick layer of fat, 

 answering the same purpose as the blubber in the 

 whales, and which of itself would, in water of ordinary 

 temperature, be sufficient to retain the animal warmth. 

 Inhabiting, however, as do:s the seal, the icy waters 

 surrounding the polar regions, something more is 

 necessary. This we find in a double coating of fur, 

 the inner layer the sealskin of commerce being of a 

 very fine and silky nature, and the outer of a more 

 coarse and bristly character, serving as a kind of thatch 

 to the whole. When the animal is in the water this 

 fur is pressed closely against the skin, and, being con- 

 stantly lubricated with an oily fluid secreted by the 

 skin, is rendered perfectly water-tight, just as is the 

 proverbial 'duck's back.' This coating of fat also 

 serves another and very remarkable purpose. 



During the breeding season the adult males come 

 ashore, and each takes possession of a piece of ground, 

 and occupies it together with a number of females. 

 Each male endeavours to enlarge his territory so as to 

 accommodate more wives, but those who occupy the 

 adjoining spots will fight to the death rather than 

 allow him to encroach on their -property. 



