Steller’s sea cow

The extinction of this 9-meter (30 ft) sea mammal is a wake-up call for those who believe the ocean has unlimited replenishing species

Steller, the discoverer of this species, is the only scientist who ever witnessed this animal alive. The gigantic sea creatures were about 11 tons in mass and up to 10 meters in length. Most of their time was spent floating on the water, chilling out in groups. Hunters and sailors went crazy after this sea cow’s delicious meat (stated by Steller).

Their fury’s quality also enthralled fur merchants. The thick blubber was frequently used as a source of oils for lamps and cooking. Unfortunately, these features didn’t serve them well and led to their extinction by the 18th century. Did you know that they survived only about 30 years after being discovered by men?

Distribution

Country
Population est.
Status
Year
Comments
Bering sea
0
Official estimate
EX
2016
Extinct locally
Pacific ocean
0
Official estimate
EX
2016
Extinct locally
Russia
0
Official estimate
EX
2016
Extinct locally
United States
0
Official estimate
EX
2016
Extinct locally

Did you know?

  • Only sirenian known to have lived in cold waters.

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Terrestrial / Aquatic

Altricial / Precocial

Polygamous / Monogamous

Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic

Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal

Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd / Group

Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore

Migratory: Yes / No

Domesticated: Yes / No

Dangerous: Yes / No