Animals
Class: Mammal
Biome:
Conservation Status: Least Concern
About this animal
The common Harbour seal is native to temperate, arctic and subarctic waters throughout the Northern hemisphere. Harbour seals are purpose-built for life in the water, with powerful hindflippers, a sleek, streamlined body and all-over insulation. This mammal lives mainly in the sea but comes ashore to give birth and raise its pups. When compared, male harbour seals are both heavier (170kg / 2m) and longer than females (150 kg / 1.7m). The bulk of their diet is obtained by consuming fish as well as squid and a selection of crustaceans such as crabs and shrimp. The possession of a layer of fat called blubber plays an important role by providing the animal with insulation when in cold water.
Did you know?
A pup nurses for 4-6 weeks. It’s mother’s milk contains as much as 45% milk fat, enabling the pup to double its weight by the time its weaned!
