Willy recently brought us the sniper of the sea and today I present the arctic Hooded Seal and its ability to survive extreme cold at depths more than 3000 feet.

Scientists have found these seals stop shivering in cold (36 deg F) water to lower their metabolism and conserve oxygen. Their brain even cools by five degrees, further slowing the need for oxygen and reducing the risk of brain damage. All mammals exhibit a mammalian dive reflex but not to this extent. During deep dives the arctic seals survive on oxygen levels so low that humans would die from hypoxia on a comparable amount.

No one knows how hooded seals can do this but scientists speculate it may be due to neuroglobin levels four times greater than humans. If the secret is discovered it may provide benefits to people experiencing heart attack, stroke, and respiratory disorders which interrupt oxygen reaching the brain. Maybe someday it'll extend your bottom time.