British Sign Language Glossaries of Curriculum Terms

BSL Marine Species Glossary - Grey seal - definition

Translation:

Grey seals are marine mammals with flippers, a smooth body, grey colouring, round eyes, tiny ears, and a distinctive muzzle. Their nostrils close when they dive, preventing water from entering their lungs. They resemble sea pigs. Grey seals are covered in waterproof fur, and their bodies are lined with fat, which helps them stay warm and supports buoyancy.

They are skilled divers and swimmers, often gathering in groups on the surface, where they can be seen lying on rocks or beaches. They are clumsy on land and move by “galumphing” – a flopping, caterpillar-like motion using their front flippers and body to pull themselves along. In water, they are highly efficient swimmers.

Grey seals are very vocal, often barking and roaring. Male seals sometimes fight when competing for females. Pregnancy lasts between 11 and 12 months, and when pups are born, they recognise their mother’s call. The pups have thick white fur that keeps them warm, but as they grow, this fur moults and is replaced by grey. Their bodies become smooth and waterproof.

Grey seals usually live between 25 and 30 years. They are skilled hunters but are also prey for killer whales and sharks. Human activity further threatens their survival — many get caught in fishing nets, and their habitats are increasingly being destroyed. Climate change is also having an impact on numbers which is why there is now legislation to protect them.