The harbor seal, also known as the common seal, is a true seal found along temperate and Arctic marine coastlines of the Northern Hemisphere. The most widely distributed species of pinniped, they are found in coastal waters of the northern Atlantic and Pacific oceans, Baltic and North seas.
Similar species: Carnivorans
By Claire Hamilton
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Uploaded Aug 28, 2018. Captured Aug 28, 2018 03:22 in 2 Coastguard Cottages, Newtown, Newport PO30 4PA, UK.
comments (3)
"The sight of this lovely harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) was quite a delight for JungleDragon moderator, Claire Hamilton, and we are so glad she shared it with us! Harbor seals are found along temperate and Arctic coastlines in the Northern Hemisphere, making them the most widespread pinnipeds. They are curious, yet shy animals that prefer quiet areas. Seals frequent familiar resting spots and "haul out" on beaches and rocks to bask in the sun and sleep. At the slightest sign of danger they simply slip back into the water and swim away. They can dive as deep as 450 meters and stay underwater for nearly 30 minutes! They accomplish such long dives by slowing their heart rates from 80 beats per minute to as few as three. Before diving, they release a deep exhalation, which reduces the amount of oxygen in their lungs, so that they rely on stored oxygen in their blood while underwater. Their blood is shunted away from their extremities and is concentrated on maintaining the core functions of the brain, heart, and lungs.They are perfectly adapted for their environment! {Spotted on the Isle of Wight by JungleDragon moderator, Claire Hamilton} #JungleDragon" Posted 7 years ago
And, thanks! Posted 7 years ago