Distribution and Relative Abundance of Grey Seal in Irish EEZ 2005-2011

Grey seals are the largest seal species in Irish waters. Male grey seals are considerably larger than females, growing up to 2.6 m in length. Females grow up to 2 m in length.The coat is dark grey on the back and flanks with a lighter underside and with irregular black mottling over the entire animal. Grey seals have a ‘Roman nose’ shaped muzzle. Newborn pups have a white coat and pups are born approximately one meter in length. The data collected includes observations, relative abundance, search for and range of Grey Seal (Halichoerus grypus) recorded from marine mammals observations on board ships of opportunity between 2005 and 2011.