Main Characteristics

Harp Seals have a body length between 1.6 and 1.9 m (5.2 - 6.2 ft) and they weigh between 130 and 160 kgs (290 - 350 lbs).

As pups they have a white coloured coat but as they mature this changes. When males reach 7 years of age and females 12, they have a dark coloured head with a pale grey body and a small, harp shaped marking on their back.

Habitat

Harp Seals can be found in the Arctic and north west Atlantic Ocean.

Diet

Harp Seals feed upon a variety of fish, crabs and other invertebrates.

Breeding

After a gestation period of 11 months, Harp Seals give birth to a single pup. They are weaned at 2 weeks old and they reach sexual maturity at 3 - 8 years of age.

Predators

Predators of Harp Seals include killer whales, polar bears, sharks and humans.

Subspecies

Harp Seals have no subspecies

Interesting Facts