Seals

There are two similar species of seals that inhabit New England— Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina vitulina) and gray seals (Halichoerus grypus atlantica). Harbor seals are relatively small (1.5 meters, or 5 feet long), with a coat that varies somewhat with age, wetness and between individuals.  Gray seals are the largest seal found in the area, with males growing to 8 feet and weighing over 800 pounds. Females are somewhat smaller, measuring 7 feet and weighing less than 600 pounds. Besides size, the sexes differ in a number of ways: males tend to be darker with few light spots, while females tend to be light with dark, irregular blotches. Young can be easily confused with harbor seals.