A small Arctic seal — smallest in the Arctic. Primary prey of polar bears. Excavates breathing holes in sea ice and birthing dens in snow drifts.

Native status: Native to Arctic

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 1.0–1.5 m
Weight50–110 kg
LifespanWild 25–45 years
OrderCarnivora
FamilyPhocidae

§ Encyclopedia

The ringed seal is a small earless seal species found in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. Its common name is derived from a distinctive patterning of dark spots surrounded by light gray rings.

Source: Wikipedia — Ringed seal Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Small dark seal with distinct dark rings on silver-gray coat; rounded face.

Similar species. Other northern seals (different markings).

Voice. Various trills and growls.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Fish (Arctic cod, char), small crustaceans.

Behavior. Most widespread Arctic seal. Builds birthing chambers under snow. Primary prey of polar bears.

§ Range

Arctic seas, Bering Sea

§ Habitat

Sea ice, especially shore-fast ice

§ Threats

Climate-driven sea ice loss, polar bear range shifts, marine pollution.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the ringed seal is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support Arctic climate action. Reduce fossil fuel emissions. Donate to ringed seal research.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • NOAA Fisheries Alaska
  • Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada
  • IUCN Red List 2015