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Gray Seal

While this species gets its common name from its gray color, its scientific name, Halichoerus grypus, translating to “hooked-nosed pig of the sea”, comes from the distinct nose male gray seals are known to sport.

 

The gray seal is an abundant species found along North Atlantic coastlines, often in the same areas as the harbor seal. No terrain can stop them from relaxing — they’re seen lounging on rocky beaches, tidal sandbars, and even atop icebergs. The species is made up of three separate populations divided by their geographic locations — western North Atlantic, eastern North Atlantic, and Baltic Sea. These seals grow up 3 meters (10 feet) in length. Adults sport a soft gray coat, occasionally spattered with black spots, while pups are born with white fur to help keep them warm while they develop their own insulative blubber.

Gray seals frequently congregate in large groups through the mating and molting season, but during the rest of the year, they can be found alone, in small groups, or occasionally large populations. They often hunt in groups as well, feeding on a variety of prey such as fish, squid, octopuses, crustaceans, and even seabirds. They rely on multiple skills to hunt, including their sharp vision, great hearing, and strong diving skills — able to dive up to 475.5 meters (1,560 feet) down and hold their breath for up to an hour. But as quick as gray seals are in water, they aren’t as graceful on land — there, they must depend on a caterpillar-like way of moving to get around.

 

 

There are a variety of threats to the gray seal such as entanglement in fishing gear, pollution, oil spills, and boat strikes. Fortunately, it is listed as a species of least concern on the IUCN Red List.

 

 

Putting an end to destructive fishing practices, protecting biodiverse coastlines, and reducing our reliance on oil is necessary to protect gray seals. Oceana campaigns to reduce overfishing, safeguard vital ocean habitats, and stop offshore drilling around the world — benefitting gray seals and other species that depend on clean, abundant, and biodiverse oceans. 

 

 

 

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