The harp seal is named for the dark harp shaped pattern on its back. The dark horseshoe or harp shape is more distinct on adult males. The female is lighter and the juveniles of both genders have a series of blotches along the back.  Pups are born with a white coat which gives it ideal camouflage .These seals resemble the harbor seal but are slightly larger, growing to 6 feet and weighing up to 400 pounds.

 

Did you know?

The harp seal's scientific name means "ice loving seal of Greenland"