Ribbons and beaus (and pups)

Seeing ribbon seals up close was a special treat for researchers aboard the U.S. Coast Guard icebreaker Healy during a April 2009 cruise in the Bering Sea. Ribbon seals are often seen closer to Russia, which is on the western edge of the Bering Sea. The adults’ striking pattern sets them apart. One afternoon as the ship headed back out to open water, they passed several of the 150-pound pinnipeds (or fin-footed animals), including mothers with pups. (Photo by Chris Linder, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)