New Zealand fur seals (Arctocephalus forsteri), of the eared seal family, have visible ears and no blubber layer to keep them warm. Instead they have dual layer fur, with a stiffer outer layer of silvery brown hair (when dry) and an inner layer of soft water proof reddish brown hair.
This fur was highly sought after in the early 19th century for clothing and seals were slaughtered by their thousands. In the early 19th century more than 45,000 skins were taken every year.
Fur seals are currently fully protected and numbers are increasing steadily.
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