Harp seal, Jones Beach, Long Island, New York, USA

© Vicki Jauron, Babylon and Beyond Photography/Getty Image

Info. Harp seal

Harp seals are one of five types of seals that populate Long Island’s Jones Beach in New York from November to May. They travel from as far away as the Canadian Arctic and north-west Greenland to rest up and feed before making their way north again in the spring.

Harp seals can sleep in the water, too, with almost their whole body underwater, apart from the snout. They tend to gather in groups on land because it’s safe. Harp seals can live up to 35 years if they aren’t hunted for their skin as a newborn, or eaten by a polar bear, orca or great white shark. Here, at Jones Beach State Park, they live out of harm’s way. They’re protected from hunters, while the sharks have moved south for the winter. So, enjoy your nap, little friend.