Gray Seal

Halichoerus grypus

The Gray Seal gathers in groups to feed on such bottom-dwelling fish as pollack, haddock, capelin, cod, flounder, and whiting, as well as squid and octopus. Adults make threatening hoots, barks, and hisses; pups a shrill yap. The Gray Seal maneuvers better on land than other members of its family and may crawl far inland to breed and give birth. Once quite rare, the Gray Seal was protected, and populations have been increasing rapidly in the past few years.

Look For : A large gray to black seal with a long snout. Barks; also makes quavering calls.

Length : Body 8-10' long.

Habitat : Waters near shore with rocky coasts and islands.

Range : Labrador south to New England.