There are two types of seals in Strangford Lough, Common Seals and Grey Seals
"The Lough is one of the most important breeding sites in Ireland for common seals, despite a decline in numbers. A small number of grey seals are also present. Although they may be seen anywhere in the Lough, the best views are when they are on rocky haul-outs close to the shore. Unfortunately, the Phocine Distemper Virus in 1988 which affected most seal populations in the British Isles, killed more than 100 seals from the Strangford Lough area.Seals are efficient swimmers, with large hind flippers propelling a streamlined cylindrical shape. A thick water repellent coat and layers of blubber reduce heat loss. Grey and common seals normally dive for five to ten minutes which can be repeated many times, but they are capable of staying down for up to half an hour and can reach depths of 50 metres.
Grey seal bulls are up to 2 metres long with larger heads and necks than the slightly smaller females. The flatter head and long "Roman" nose with parallel vertical nostrils distinguish the grey from the common seal. The adult coat is dark to light grey with large patches of cream, brown or black.
Common seals of both sexes are smaller than grey seals at 1.75 metres, they have doglike heads with concave snouts and v-shaped nostrils. The coat of adults and pups is grey, while juveniles or moulting adults are brown .
Both species need to spend time hauled-out of the water on rocks, islands and pladdies for rest, warmth, birthing and nursing their pups. Common seal pups are born in June or July and can take to water immediately. Grey seal pups are born white furred between September and November, remaining on land for 3-4 weeks until weaned."
Extract from The National Trust Strangford Lough leaflet - reproduced with kind permission from the National Trust
Image Library Animal Life
Map Room Out and about
