Southern Elephant Seal (3/4)

Carnivora: Phocidae

Mirounga leonina  

This Southern Elephant Seal was letting me know that this was his bit of beach with very loud grunts and long sustained burps. Knowing I had the advantage in a fight (I could run faster), I stood my ground and the weaner backed down (thank goodness) and I was able to safely walk past. It was an indescribable thrill and privilege to be able to walk amongst the seals and penguins of Macquarie Island.