How long can seals stay underwater?

Answer by  tsuerob (175)

Typically seals can stay underwater about 15 minutes. This is because their bloodstream can store much more oxygen than humans. When underwater the seals are using the oxygen stored in their bloodstream instead of the oxygen in their lungs.

Answer by  dpboris (383)

They can routinely stay underwater around 10-15 minutes, depending on the seal's weight. The longest recorded seal dive lasted 45 minutes.

Answer by  drew76 (146)

It varies, depending on the seal type how long they can stay. Harp seals can stay underwater up to 15 minutes. The Weddell seal can stay underwater for almost an hour. Since, unlike humans, seals' hearts slow down, they are able to survive without oxygen for this amount of time.