Thursday, June 18, 2015

Pinnipeds and Whale Watching "Humanicus whalewachterous"

Gray Seal

While out on the whale watch trip, we not only came across humpback whales and seabirds, but also two species of pinnipeds. Pinnipeds are seals and in our area, the most common species are the gray seal -Halichoerus grypus and the harbor seal - Phoca vitulina. Gray seals are sometimes called "horseheads" because of their large snouts. Harbor seals snout are more doglike. Both species of seals enjoyed "human observation" as they gazed at us on the boat as we were watching them.

Gray Seal

Harbor Seal

The waters of the Atlantic Ocean were basically still and clear so you could observe the harbor seal swimming under the water.

Harbor Seal Swimming under the Water

We also observed a new species of animals, whose population increases every year. The species is "Humanicus whalewachterous". This species arrives anywhere there is whales in a great variety of ocean crafts. You all know if you are a member of this species.