- Wildlife
- Seals, turtles and other marine mammals
- Common Seal
Jamie Hall.JPG "Common Seal - Jamie Hall - Jamie Hall")
About
The smaller of our two seal species, Common Seals (also known as Harbour Seals) are more commonly found around sheltered shores and estuaries, where they haul out on sandbanks and beaches. When out of the water, they sometimes hold their body in a curved 'banana' position, with their head and tail both in the air at the same time. Like Grey Seals, they feed on fish, but also eat squids, whelks, crabs and mussels. The young are born during the summer.
How to identify
Can be distinguished from the Grey Seal by its smaller size and shorter head with a blunter, more dog-like profile. Very variable in colour, from blonde to black, but generally grey with dark spots.
Where to find it
Found around the coasts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and eastern England.
Habitats
When to find it
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
- Novermber
- December
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
How can people help
Common Seals were historically hunted by humans, their numbers dwindling as a result. Following the ban on shooting, recovering populations were hit hard in the 1980s by a disease called phocine distemper - thousands of seals died across Europe. This disease causes periodic population crashes which are uncontrollable. To help seals and other marine wildlife, The Wildlife Trusts are working with fishermen, researchers, politicians and local people towards a vision of 'Living Seas', where marine wildlife thrives. This work has recently had a massive boost with the passing of the Marine Bill, promising sustainable development of the UK's marine environment. Do your bit for our Living Seas by supporting your local Wildlife Trust.