Grey Seal
by Christopher Teague Photography
Halichoerus grypus
Common & widespread around Britain's coast.
They are also around the coasts of Central Northern Europe, North Sea, Baltic Sea & the Canadian East Coast.
They do not occur in the English Channel.
Colours and patterns are highly variable.
Males tend to have a light pattern on a dark background, while Females tend to have the opposite — a dark pattern on a light background, often with a noticeably light belly.
The neck and chest of Males tend to be wrinkled and scarred, while Females are smoother.
Males have an especially wide muzzle.
Males have a large, visible opening on the lower abdomen, while Females have no obvious openings.
Juveniles are often a solid colour, and can be difficult or impossible to sex.