Harbor Seal

Phoca vitulina

This well-named seal is the most common seal you will see along the Atlantic coast. They live near shore and spend much of the day basking on small islands. They are large, bigger than a large man, and are usually a spotted gray, tan, or dark brown. Their populations have increased considerably in recent years, and they are not popular with fishermen because they eat mostly fish. Like all seals they are sometimes eaten by sharks.

Look For : A small seal often seen lying on rocks. It comes in many colors and patterns but is usually light gray to brown with spots.

Length : Body 4-6' long, tail 3-5" long; up to 308 lb.

Habitat : Waters near shore, especially river mouths and harbors.

Range : Canadian and U.S. coastlines except for Southeast.