Seals are present along the East Coast of North America. This extensive coastline, with its diverse habitats, supports various seal species throughout the year or during specific seasons.
Common East Coast Seal Species
Several seal species inhabit the East Coast. The harbor seal, a common sight, typically measures around 6 feet long and weighs about 220 pounds. Their fur varies from tan, grey, or dark grey to light silver, often displaying spots or dark speckles. These seals have a short, dog-like snout.
Another prevalent species is the gray seal, reaching up to 7 feet in length, with males potentially weighing around 800 pounds and females about 500 pounds. Gray seals are characterized by silver coloring with darker gray or black spots and a distinct horse-shaped head, particularly pronounced in males. Harp seals, about 6 feet long and 275 pounds, are recognized by their dark faces and a large black spot resembling a harp across their backs as adults. Juveniles exhibit an irregular blotched coat that develops into the adult pattern with each annual molt.
Their Coastal Habitats
Seals along the East Coast utilize various environments, from rocky shores to sandy beaches and ice floes. These semi-aquatic animals frequently “haul out” to rest on land or sea ice. This behavior is essential for regulating body temperature, resting, molting, giving birth, and nursing young. Haul-out sites also provide protection from aquatic predators.
Habitats like offshore islands, sandbars, and undisturbed coastal areas offer safety and access to food. Seals can be found along a broad geographic stretch of the East Coast, from the Canadian Arctic down to the Mid-Atlantic and parts of the Carolinas. They often choose locations that minimize human disturbance.
Seasonal Presence and Behavior
The presence of seals on the East Coast varies seasonally, influenced by migration and life cycle events. Harbor seals are year-round residents in many New England areas, though some younger seals may travel south to warmer waters like the Chesapeake Bay during winter. Gray seals are also year-round residents in New England. Harp seals are primarily winter visitors, often seen in Maine when ice forms along the coast.
Seals exhibit behaviors like feeding and pupping. Harbor seals give birth from late April through June, with mothers leaving young on shore to forage. Gray seals typically give birth between December and February, with pups born with a creamy white coat. Seals primarily feed on fish, but their diet can also include crustaceans and cephalopods. They often gather in larger groups on beaches during mating, pupping, or molting seasons.
Encountering Seals Responsibly
Encountering a seal on the East Coast requires responsible behavior for the well-being of both humans and the animals. Observe seals from a respectful distance, generally at least 50 yards or 150 feet, to avoid causing stress or disturbance. Never attempt to feed, touch, or approach a seal, as this can habituate them to humans and lead to aggression or abandonment of pups. Seals are wild animals and can carry bacteria potentially harmful to humans if bitten.
If a seal appears injured, sick, or in distress, contact a local marine mammal stranding network or authorities. These organizations assess the animal’s condition and intervene safely. All marine mammals, including seals, are protected under federal law, such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which prohibits harassing, hunting, capturing, or killing them.