Seal Facts

We have two species of seal in the waters around the UK – the grey and the common. The latter is often also called the harbour seal. Occasionally, other species may be seen as rare vagrants.

The grey seal is larger and more numerous. It can travel great distances in search of food – sometimes over 100km. Greys have longer faces and Roman noses.

Bulls can weigh up to 250kg, and sometimes may be even heavier.

Seals live an average of 25 years, though up to 40 has been recorded.

The UK has 40% of the world population of grey seals, 90% of which is in Scottish waters.

Common seals, despite their name, are far less numerous and are in worrying decline. The UK holds 30% of the world population, 80% of which is in Scotland. They are considerably smaller and have prettier, more dog-like faces. They are a favoured prey for orca, and on occasion large grey seals may also kill them.