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Harbor seal

A species of Mediterranean monk seal, Also known as Pacific harbor seal
Scientific name : Phoca vitulina Genus : Mediterranean monk seal

Harbor seal, A species of Mediterranean monk seal
Also known as:
Pacific harbor seal
Scientific name: Phoca vitulina
Genus: Mediterranean monk seal
Harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) Photo By Soluvo , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

Description

Individual harbor seals possess a unique pattern of spots, either dark on a light background or light on a dark. They vary in color from brownish black to tan or grey; underparts are generally lighter. The body and flippers are short, heads are rounded. Nostrils appear distinctively V-shaped. As with other true seals, there is no pinna (ear flap). An ear canal may be visible behind the eye. Including the head and flippers, they may reach an adult length of 1.85 meters (6.1 ft) and a weight of 55 to 168 kg (120 to 370 lb). Females are generally smaller than males.

General Info

Lifespan

25-30 years

Diet

Harbor seal, commonly known as the harbour seal, is largely piscivorous, feeding on a variety of fish species. An opportunistic feeder, its diet also includes squid, octopus, and other invertebrates like crustaceans.

Appearance

Harbor seal are medium-sized marine animals with streamlined bodies, ranging from 1.2 to 1.9 meters in length. They have a smooth, thick layer of blubber under their skin for insulation. Their color varies from tan to brown on top, lighter underneath, often mottled with spots. Two flippers, a small head with round eyes and whiskered snout, and a flipper-like tail give them a unique appearance. No prominent differences are observed due to age, gender, or subspecies.

Behavior

Harbor seal is a semi-aquatic mammal showcasing diverse behaviors. It's known for surface-diving and extensive feeding, utilizing a rich diet of fish and invertebrates. Showing territorial tendencies, males vigorously defend their regions. Socially, harbor seal exist in loose groups, coordinating complex vocalizations for communication. Notably, they exhibit a basking behavior, lounging on land or ice surfaces during rest periods.
Harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) Harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) Photo By Soluvo , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

Scientific Classification

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