Harbor Seal

More Information

Physical Description

Harbor seals can reach up to six feet in length, with males usually slightly larger than females. Specially adapted flippers help these aquatic mammals move quickly through the water while a thick coat of waterproof fur helps them stay warm. Harbor seals range from light gray to dark brown in color, and their fur is accented with colored spots and rings. They primarily feed on fish, mollusks, squid, and crustaceans. After breeding, females give birth to a pup on land. Newborns can swim and dive within hours.

Interesting Fact 1

Every year, harbor seals return to the same breeding ground, where males compete for females.

Interesting Fact 2

Although hunting harbor seals is illegal in the United States, they are hunted by humans—and great white sharks—across much of their range.

Interesting Fact 3

Adults can remain underwater for up to 30 minutes, allowing them to chase a variety of prey.