Previous transportation of adult Weddell seals from Antarctica to a temperate climate resulted in one or more deaths in transit. Death was probably due to thermal stress resulting from inability to dissipate heat. The subcutaneous fat thickness of the adult animal is commonly 6-8 cm. Weddell pups, however, have not fully acquired this insulative layer and readily adjust to short periods of higher ambient temperature. Aspects of successful Weddell seal transport, in relation to these and other factors are discussed.