Seals are found in coastal waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans as well as those of the Baltic and North Seas, Common seals are brown, tan, or gray, with distinctive V-shaped nostrils.

Female seals have a life span of 30 –35 years while male lifespans are usually 20-25. Pups are able to swim and dive within hours of birth, and they grow quickly on their mothers' milk. A fatty tissue called blubber keeps them warm.

When not actively feeding, the seals will haul themselves out of the water and onto a preferred resting site.