Grey Seal

Halichoerus grypus

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Carnivora · Phocidae

About

The grey seal is a large seal of the family Phocidae, which are commonly referred to as "true seals" or "earless seals". The only species classified in the genus Halichoerus, it is found on both shores of the North Atlantic Ocean. In Latin, Halichoerus grypus means "hook-nosed sea pig". Its name is spelled gray seal in the United States; it is also known as Atlantic seal and the horsehead seal.

Fun Fact

Grey seals can hold their breath for up to 20 minutes while diving to depths of 300 metres, and their whiskers are so sensitive they can detect the hydrodynamic trails left by fish that swam past minutes earlier.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Coastal waters and rocky shores

Diet

Piscivore

Lifespan

25-35 years

Threats

Overfishing
Ocean Pollution

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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