Iceland’s Seaside Secrets: Discover Iceland’s Seals in the Wild
Iceland is known for its dramatic landscapes, stunning glaciers, and rich marine life. Among the captivating creatures that inhabit its coastal waters are seals—graceful and curious animals that have become iconic symbols of the country’s wild beauty.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature photographer, or just a curious traveller, the seals of Iceland offer a unique opportunity to connect with the island’s untamed spirit.
From the playful harbour seals lounging on rocky shores to the elusive grey seals diving beneath the waves, these fascinating marine mammals play a vital role in Iceland’s ecosystem and culture.
In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Iceland’s seals, where to find them, and why their preservation is more important than ever.
Species of Seals in Iceland
- Harbour Seal (Phoca vitulina)
The most common seal species in Iceland.
Harbour seals are medium-sized, with adults growing up to 1.85 meters long and weighing up to 130 kg. They are usually grey with darker spots, although colour patterns vary widely.
They prefer sheltered waters, including fjords and estuaries, and can often be found resting on beaches or rocks.
They primarily feed on fish, such as cod, herring, flatfish, and cephalopods, such as squid and octopus.
The population of harbour seals in Iceland has declined in recent years due to habitat disturbance and environmental changes.
- Grey Seal (Halichoerus grypus)
It is less common than harbour seals but still prevalent along Icelandic coasts.
Grey seals are larger than harbour seals, with males reaching up to 2.3 meters long and weighing as much as 300 kg. They have a long, broad snout and are usually grey with dark spots or patches.
They are found around the coasts, particularly in the Westfjords and the southern coast. They often prefer remote, rocky areas for breeding and resting.
Grey seals have a varied diet, including herring, cod, flatfish, crustaceans, and molluscs.
The grey seal population in Iceland is stable but small in comparison to other northern European regions.
- Occasional Visitors
Harp Seal (Pagophilus groenlandicus) and Hooded Seal (Cystophora cristata) are not resident species but are occasionally spotted off Iceland’s northern coast, especially when drifting ice from Greenland brings them closer.
Behaviour and Biology
Breeding Season: Seals typically breed in late spring to early summer. Harbour seals give birth to pups on land or ice floes, while grey seals use isolated beaches or rocky shores.
Pups: Seal pups are born with a soft white coat and are usually nursed for about three to four weeks before becoming independent.
Diving and Swimming: Both harbour and grey seals are excellent swimmers and divers. They can dive to depths of up to 300 meters and hold their breath for 20 to 30 minutes. They use their whiskers (vibrissae) to detect prey in the water.
Conservation Status
Harbour Seal: Listed as ‘Vulnerable’ by the Icelandic Institute of Natural History due to a steady decline in numbers since the 1980s. The population has been affected by environmental changes, including warming seas and changes in fish stock availability.
Grey Seal: Though less studied, the grey seal population is relatively stable. However, researchers who monitor human activities like fishing and pollution that could affect their habitats are still concerned about it.
Places to See Seals in Iceland
- Vatnsnes Peninsula: One of the best places to see seals in Iceland, particularly around the Hvítserkur rock formation. A seal centre at Hvammstangi provides information about local seal species and seal-watching opportunities.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Seals can often swim in the lagoon or lie on icebergs. It’s one of the more accessible locations for seal spotting.
- Westfjords: Remote and less visited, the Westfjords offer a natural habitat for seals, with several spots ideal for seal-watching.
Research and Monitoring
Several research projects are conducted in Iceland to monitor seal populations, study their health, and understand the impact of environmental changes. The ‘Icelandic Seal Center’ is a notable institution dedicated to research, education, and conservation of seals in Icelandic waters.
Seals are a vital part of Iceland’s marine ecosystem, and efforts are being made to balance their conservation with the growing demands of tourism and fishing.
