Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Grey Seal

Scientific name: Halichoerus grypus


Grey Seal

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: PHOCIDAE

Group: Marine mammals

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 30 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.10-30.11

Gestation: 11 mois

Births: 01.11-31.01


Habitat:
Coastal zones, sandy beaches, cliffs, islands, and estuaries

Description:
The Gray Seal, also known as the Horsehead Seal, is a species of seal found in the coastal waters of the North Atlantic, particularly in Europe and North America. It measures between 2 and 3 meters in length and weighs between 170 and 300 kg. Its fur is typically silver-gray with black spots, and its head is characterized by a wide and elongated snout. The Gray Seal primarily feeds on fish, but also on crustaceans and cephalopods. It spends a lot of time on beaches and rocks for resting and breeding. Although it is not currently threatened, it can be affected by marine pollution, ship collisions, and human disturbance.

Recommended lens:
>=200 mm

Photography tips:
Use a telephoto lens to photograph the gray seals from a distance without disturbing them. Prefer the early hours of the morning or the last hours of the day to capture soft light and avoid crowds. Respect their space to avoid scaring them, especially during the breeding season.

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