Leopard Seal #1

Leopard Seals (Hydrurga leptonyx) are the second largest species of seal in the #Antarctic with their only known predators being killer whales! Not much was known about their behavior and personality until National Geographic photographer @paulnicklen encountered a special character on an Antarctic expedition in 2006. A large female leopard Seal approached Paul as soon as he was in the water, but instead of harming him, the seal began to "nurture" him, in his words. It began to bring him penguins, first alive, then dead, perhaps assuming that he was a "useless predator in her ocean." and continued to do so for four days! How enriching an experience this must have been, to shed light on an animal that was once thought of as mindless and viscous, but instead, showed her true nature by interacting with a human in a curious, and gentle manner, behaving more confused and helpful than anything! This piece is inspired by this encounter Paul describes, because I found the story to have such a poignant meaning in regards to how humans can see other living beings on our planet, and how that stereotype of an animal can be so incorrect.

Details:

• 11"X14" graphite on Bristol paper
• signed and dated by the artist
• framing included in price. Delivers in a black wood frame with glass.