France maintains several categories in defining its many territorial possessions. The islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon have the status of being an “overseas collectivity” territory. João Álvares Fagundes, a Portuguese explorer, landed on the islands in 1520, but they were claimed for France by Jacques Cartier in 1536.
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Cystophora cristata - The hooded seal’s name is derived from the large inflatable sac extending from the nostril to their forehead; only males have this feature. Sexually mature males also have the ability to blow a pinkish balloon out of their left nostril. The males use these displays as a means of intimidating rivals during courtship battles and to attract females. This odd feature is also used as a signaling device in defining status within a group for feeding privileges or basking rights and as a general indicator of the animal’s health.
