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H2 - Seals in Cornwall
Common seal, also known as harbor seal or the spotted seal
Scentific name: Phoca vitulina
Appearance
The common seal has a distinctive, rounded body shape with short, thick flippers and a small, tapered head. They are typically gray or brown in color with a light underbelly and spots or rings on their back. Adults can reach lengths of up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) and weigh between 110 and 375 pounds (50-170 kg)
Habitat
Common seals can be found in coastal waters of the Northern Hemisphere, including the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. They prefer to inhabit areas with rocky coastlines, tidal estuaries, and sandy beaches where they can haul out to rest and bask in the sun. In the summer months, common seals can be found as far north as the Arctic Circle, while in the winter they migrate to more temperate waters.
Behaviour
Common seals are social animals and can be found in groups of up to several hundred individuals. They are also known for their curious and playful behavior, often interacting with humans and other animals in the water. Breeding typically occurs in the late spring or early summer, and females give birth to a single pup after a gestation period of around 11 months. Pups are born with a white, woolly coat and are weaned after 4-6 weeks.
Fun Fact
Common seals are excellent divers, capable of reaching depths of up to 1,500 feet (450 meters) and staying underwater for up to 30 minutes. To achieve these impressive diving abilities, they have a number of adaptations, including the ability to slow their heart rate and divert blood flow to their vital organs to conserve oxygen.
