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Inflatable Pink Nose
Male hooded seals inflate their nasal cavity into a pink balloon AND can blow a red membrane out of one nostril — both used to impress females.
Hooded Seal
Cystophora cristata
Male hooded seals have a bizarre inflatable nasal membrane used in courtship displays.
Vital Stats
🏷️ TypePinniped (true seal)
🌍 Found InNorth Atlantic — Arctic ice floes
📏 Size2-2.7m, 145-400kg (males larger)
⏳ Lifespan25-35 years
🔞 Sexual MaturityMales: 5-7 years | Females: 3-6 years
💕 Mating SystemMales compete by inflating nasal balloons
📅 Mating SeasonMarch (on pack ice)
🤰 Gestation11 months (includes delayed implantation)
👶 Offspring1 pup per year
🍆 Penis Size18 cm
⏱️ Sex Duration30 seconds
🔬 Notable AnatomyMales inflate hood and blow red nasal membrane balloon to attract females; pups weaned in 4 days (shortest of any mammal)
⚖️ Sexual DimorphismMales much larger with inflatable hood