Harp Seals in Ogunquit

We forget that the water cycle and the life cycle are one.
                                              -Jacques Yves Cousteau

        (Photo courtesy of Sharma Damren)

While walking Ogunquit beach, you'll never know what you may see. Beachcombers, seagulls, and other marine life frequents this unique stretch of sand in the north Atlantic.
The weather is fickle in Maine during the winter, but today highs reached 50 degrees (10c), and a harp seal decided to sun herself on Ogunquit beach. Yes, I said "herself". Harp seals are native to the Arctic and Canada. During the latter winter months stretching into spring, some harp seals will migrate to Maine waters and sun themselves. According to Lynda Doughty of Maine Marine Patrol Hotline, this was uncommon 10 years ago.
Harp seals coats are thick with blubber, and are quite adaptable to cold weather. They are more solitary than harbor and gray seals. If you happen to see a seal on the beach, do not be alarmed. These large mammals will play dead, and are not in distress according to Maine Marine Patrol.

Map shows migration patterns of harp seals. Seals are now migrating further into Maine waters.