A dramatic video captures two enormous male elephant seals clashing over territory at the Piedras Blancas Northern Elephant Seal Rookery, drawing the attention of wildlife observers and photographers.

Adult males, measuring 14 to 16 feet and weighing between 3,000 and 5,000 pounds, use their sheer size and power to assert dominance within the colony. Their distinctive proboscis, an inflatable nose, allows them to make booming vocalizations during breeding season, signaling authority and attracting potential mates.

Females are notably smaller, typically 9 to 12 feet long and weighing 900 to 1,800 pounds, but the males’ aggressive confrontations are critical for establishing social hierarchy and securing reproductive opportunities.

Elephant seals are also impressive divers, reaching depths of 1,000 to 2,000 feet or more. Their territorial battles, combined with these diving capabilities, showcase the remarkable adaptations that allow them to thrive along the California coastline.

For nature enthusiasts, the Piedras Blancas rookery continues to offer spectacular displays of these ocean giants in action.