The genus Mirounga, commonly known as elephant seals, comprises two species: the Northern Elephant Seal (Mirounga angustirostris) and the Southern Elephant Seal (Mirounga leonina). These are the largest seals, with males reaching up to 6 meters and known for their distinct proboscis. They inhabit coastal areas and are exceptional divers, reaching depths of over 1,500 meters. Their social structure is characterized by harems, with dominant males controlling groups of females during the breeding season. Both species are adapted to cold environments, with thick blubber for insulation.

The genus Mirounga, commonly known as elephant seals, has two species with distinct native regions. The Northern Elephant Seal (Mirounga angustirostris) is primarily found along the Pacific coast of North America, from Baja California in Mexico to the Gulf of Alaska. The Southern Elephant Seal (Mirounga leonina) inhabits the sub-Antarctic and Antarctic regions, with populations on islands such as South Georgia, the Falkland Islands, the Kerguelen Islands, and Macquarie Island, as well as along the coasts of Argentina and South Africa.

Elephant seals are typically found in coastal and marine environments. The Northern Elephant Seal inhabits temperate to subarctic waters, often breeding on sandy or rocky beaches. They adapt to various marine conditions, spending much of their life in the open ocean. The Southern Elephant Seal prefers colder climates, with habitats including icy, sub-Antarctic waters and rocky shorelines, often breeding on remote islands with harsh weather conditions.

Both species of elephant seals are highly adapted to life at sea, spending the majority of their time in the ocean. They are deep divers, foraging for squid, fish, and other marine organisms at significant depths. Elephant seals play an important ecological role as both predator and prey, contributing to the marine food web. Their breeding sites are typically isolated beaches that provide safety from predators and human disturbance.