Watercolor illustration of phoque commun (Phoca vitulina)

phoque commun

Phoca vitulina

Near Threatened
Diet
Carnivore
Lifespan
30 years
Length
1.7 m
Weight
80.0 kg
Population
500.0K
Trend
→ Stable
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About

The most widely distributed pinniped, harbor seals inhabit temperate and subarctic coastal waters of both the North Atlantic and North Pacific. Adults reach up to 130 kg and spend roughly equal time at sea hunting fish, squid, and crustaceans and hauling out on beaches or rocks to rest. Their large, expressive eyes are adapted for underwater vision in low light. Harbor seals are a critical food source for orcas, sharks, and polar bears.

Fun Facts

  • Harbor seals can dive to depths of 500 meters.
  • Their whiskers can detect vibrations in the water to locate prey.

Habitat & Distribution

Typically found in diverse ecosystems where prey species are available.

Found across Europe (7 countries) and North America (United States). Listed as Near Threatened, this species requires ongoing monitoring to prevent population decline.

Diet & Behavior

🥩
Carnivore
phoque commun is classified as carnivore, adapted to its ecological niche.

Diet

🥩 Carnivore
Animal matter 100%

Conservation Status

NT Near Threatened
Estimated Population
500.0K
Population Trend
Stable

Names in Other Languages

Spanish Foca común
French phoque commun
German Seehund

Similar Species in Phoca

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of phoque commun?
The scientific name of phoque commun is Phoca vitulina. It belongs to the genus Phoca.
What is the conservation status of phoque commun?
phoque commun (Phoca vitulina) is classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List. The population trend is stable.
Where does phoque commun live?
phoque commun is found in Found across Europe (7 countries) and North America (United States). Listed as Near Threatened, this species requires ongoing monitoring to prevent population decline.. Countries include Belgium, Denmark, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Sweden, Ukraine, United States.
What family does phoque commun belong to?
phoque commun (Phoca vitulina) belongs to the genus Phoca, which is part of the taxonomic family Phocidae.
What does phoque commun eat?
phoque commun is carnivore. Its diet is adapted to its natural habitat and ecological niche.
How long does phoque commun live?
phoque commun has an average lifespan of approximately 30 years in the wild.
How many phoque commun are left in the wild?
The estimated wild population of phoque commun (Phoca vitulina) is approximately 500,000 individuals.
What kingdom does phoque commun belong to?
phoque commun (Phoca vitulina) belongs to the kingdom Animalia (animal).

Native Range — 8 Countries

Genus Phoca — 2 Species

🦭
phoque commun
Phoca vitulina
NT
🦭
Spotted Seal
Phoca largha
LC

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