Brian Gratwicke · CC BY 2.0 · Image source

Quick facts

Length1.7–2 m
Weight115–180 kg
Lifespan25–35 years
Typical dive depth50 m
Maximum dive depth400 m
Typical dive5 minutes
Maximum dive20 minutes
Gestation11–12 months
Offspring1 young
Common around IcelandNo
Whale watchingNo
Best timeIrregularly; there is no reliable viewing season.

About Harp Seal

The harp seal is an Arctic seal that regularly enters Icelandic waters but does not normally breed in Iceland. Numbers around the country can vary considerably between years.

Habitat

Arctic and sub-Arctic seas and pack ice.

Diet

Fish and crustaceans.

Water-depth habitat

Arctic and sub-Arctic waters and pack ice.

Distribution around Iceland

An irregular visitor to Iceland from more northerly waters.
SourceLast verified: 08/09/2026