Types of Seals
Seals are marine mammals that split their lives between sea and shore, hauling out on beaches, rocks and ice to rest, breed and moult. They range from the common Harbor Seal to the enormous Northern Elephant Seal. Here are the seals in the Huck field guide, with how to tell them apart.
9 seals in the Huck field guide. Tap any one for identification, habitat, diet, and a live sightings map.
Not sure which seal you found?
Point Huck at it. One photo identifies it on the spot, and adds it to your collection.
Get Huck - freeCommon questions
What is the difference between a seal and a sea lion?
Ears and movement. Sea lions have small external ear flaps and can turn their hind flippers forward to walk on land; true seals have only ear holes and shuffle on their bellies. Sea lions are the loud, barking ones at the dock.
Should I touch a seal pup on the beach?
No. A pup alone on the beach is usually normal, resting while its mother feeds offshore, and she may abandon it if it smells of people. Keep your distance, keep dogs away, and report a pup that looks injured to a marine mammal rescue.