Description: The harbor seal is a species of true seal found along the coasts of the Northern Hemisphere. Its scientific name is Phoca vitulina, and it is known for its robust body and fur that varies in color from gray to brown, often with darker spots. These seals are semi-aquatic animals that spend much of their time in the water but can also be seen sunbathing on rocks or beaches. They range in size from 1.5 to 2 meters in length and can weigh between 50 and 150 kilograms. Their diet mainly consists of fish and crustaceans, making them important predators in their ecosystem. Harbor seals are social animals that often form groups, especially during the breeding season, which occurs in spring and summer. Despite their clumsy appearance on land, they are agile swimmers and can dive to considerable depths in search of food. Their presence along coastlines is an indicator of marine ecosystem health, as they are sensitive to changes in their environment, such as pollution and overfishing. The harbor seal is a symbol of marine life in many coastal cultures and has been the subject of scientific studies aimed at understanding its behavior and conservation.
