The Harbor Seal is the most widely distributed pinniped in the Northern Hemisphere, recognizable by its spotted coat and caterpillar-like movement on land. It does not migrate, maintaining year-round residency in coastal areas where it hauls out on rocks, sandbars, and beaches. Harbor seals are curious and often approach kayakers and swimmers but should not be fed or touched.
Best time to see a Harbor Seal
The best time to see a Harbor Seal is March–August, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 35,702 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Harbor Seal? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Harbor Seal sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Harbor Seal?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.