Harbor seal

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Phoca vitulina 05 MWNH 1464

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Phoca vitulina skeleton

White harbor seal on moss by Dave Withrow, NOAA

Harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) at Magdalen fjord, Svalbard (1)

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Common Seal Phoca vitulina

Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina), also known as the common seal, is a true seal within the family Phocidae. Harbor seals are found in coastal waters of the northern Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, the Baltic Sea, and the North Sea. One of the most widely distributed species of pinniped, harbor seals are notable for their patterned fur, generalist diet, and the ability to live both in arctic and temperate waters.

Description

Harbor seals have a rounded body shape and possess a distinctive set of whiskers and large, dark eyes. Their fur color can vary significantly among individuals, ranging from gray or brown to tan or white, often with a pattern of spots. Adult harbor seals typically measure between 1.5 to 1.9 meters (5 to 6.25 feet) in length and weigh between 55 to 168 kilograms (120 to 370 pounds), with males generally being slightly larger than females.

Habitat and Distribution

Harbor seals are found in a variety of marine environments, from arctic and subarctic regions to temperate coastal waters. They prefer areas with sandy or rocky beaches where they can haul out to rest, give birth, or avoid predators. These seals are highly adaptable and can also be found in estuaries, rivers, and lakes close to the sea.

Behavior

Harbor seals are primarily solitary animals but can be seen in groups during breeding and molting seasons. They are known for their curiosity and often approach boats and humans. Their diet consists mainly of fish, but they also consume shellfish, squid, and crustaceans. Harbor seals are preyed upon by orcas, great white sharks, and other large marine predators.

Reproduction

The breeding season of harbor seals varies by location, but generally occurs from late spring to early summer. Females give birth to a single pup after a gestation period of about nine months. Pups are born with a waterproof fur coat and can swim within hours of birth. Maternal care is intensive during the first few weeks, after which the pup is weaned and begins to forage independently.

Conservation Status

The harbor seal is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), thanks to its wide distribution and large population. However, certain populations are threatened by habitat loss, pollution, entanglement in fishing gear, and illegal hunting. Conservation efforts include monitoring populations, protecting critical habitats, and regulating fishing practices to reduce bycatch.

In Culture

Harbor seals have been featured in folklore and mythology of coastal communities. They are also popular attractions in aquariums and marine parks, where they are known for their playful behavior and ability to perform tricks. However, the ethics of keeping seals in captivity is a subject of ongoing debate.