Thursday, April 3, 2008

Dotard Sighting: Harbour Seals in Newfoundland

The Whale Release and Stranding Group Website


Harbour seal: 1.5 meters; 95 kilograms
Harbour seals (Phoca vitulina concolor) have a small round head that makes them look like a dog in the water. They are constantly on the lookout and pop up and down, staying submerged for about 20 minutes. If not frightened they often reappear with a fish or crustacean in their mouth. The harbour seal has a variety of coat colours ranging from a bluish grey to brown or tan, usually interspersed with brown blotches. Its belly is silvery white. They are found in Chance Cove Provincial Park on the southern Avalon, and may be seen anywhere around the island, especially in areas where fresh water rivers run into the sea.
The Harbour Seal is our favourite dotard.

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