Scientific name
Halichoerus grypus atlantica
Whale SENSE Region Found:
ATLANTIC
Protection status
Protected throughout its range
Where to watch:
Gray seals can be found in coastal waters along the U.S. East Coast.
They are commonly seen resting on rocks and beaches along the coast.
What to watch for:
Body: They have short forelimbs (flippers) and lack external ear flaps, instead having a small hole (opening to the ear canal) on either side of their head.
Gray seals have an elongated, horse-like snout.
Males are darker in color, while females tend to have lighter, spotted coats.
Size: Length: 7.5-10 feet, Weight: 550-880 pounds. Males are bigger than females.
Did you know?
- They often share their habitat with harbor seals.
- Gray seal pups have white fur call lanugo, which helps absorb sunlight and trap heat to keep them warm.
- Gray seal moms only nurse their pups for about three weeks! (Pups are born during winter.)
What do gray seals sound like?
Threats to gray seals
