Northern Elephant Seal. Mother and pup .

The northern elephant seal is one of two species of elephant seal. It is a member of the family" Phocidae". Elephant seals derive their name from their great size and from the male's large proboscis, which is used in making extraordinarily loud roaring noises, especially during the mating competition. Sexual dimorphism in size is great: The males can grow to 14 ft and 5,000 lb, while the females grow to 11 ft and 1,400 lb.