Social Distancing in Animals: Harbor Seals Maintain Space Between Aquatic Species to Prevent Diseases

The latest report showed that marine animals can maintain social distancing. Researchers found that harbor seals distance from one another to prevent the spread of possible diseases.

Animals can survive in marine environments by evading predators and potential diseases. Researchers and scientists aimed to unravel how aquatic animals communicate and deal with other species.

In the new study, experts found that harbor seals showed to maintain distance from one another. The study was published in Royal Society Open Science.

Harbor seals maintain social distancing

According to the study, aquatic animals maintain colony formation to protect themselves from potential predators or increase mating success.

As a result, scientists observed the harbor and grey seals. They discovered that the harbor seals appear to have more spaces between them than gray seals.

They looked into the sea of the Dutch Wadden Sea in the North Sea to observe the behavior of seals around the area using aerial surveys.

The report was also published in Phys.org.

The researchers explained the larger distances in harbor seals than the gray seals. The study explained that the harbor seals likely to maintain distance to reduce infection outbreaks or pathogen transmission.

The distance is said to be twice that of the gray seals in the area. In addition, the study noted that the warming of oceans could likely increase the risk of diseases spread among marine animals.

More facts about harbor seals

According to NOAA Fishers' website, harbor seals can be found in West Coast, Southeast, Alaska, New Lang and Mid-Atlantic areas.

NOAA explained that harbor seals can weigh up to 180 to 285 pounds. They have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. They have short flippers and forelimbs.

In the United States, harbor seals can be seen around the West and East Coast, and they prefer to stay on beaches or rocks. They can bond in groups to prevent possible attackers or predators.

In terms of diet, harbor seals like to feed on small crustaceans and fish.

The report explained that harbor seals also suffer from threats, including habitat loss, vessel collisions, contamination and fishing gear entanglement.

On the other hand, Oceana's website explained that gray seals can also be found in the Baltic Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, staying in sub-arctic waters.

Facts about gray seals

Male gray seals are noticeable with their gray spots, while the females have black and gray spots. They can weigh up to 880 pounds, with a lifespan from 25 to 35 years.

The report added that gray seals can prey on food together to catch it and avoid getting away quickly.

Furthermore, the Smithsonian National Zoo is also known as horsehead seals. They are considered great swimmers.

As efficient hunters, gray seals can locate their prey underwater. They feed on fish and squid.

Did you know?

Harbor seals are known for their banana-appearing position.

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