Abstract
Harp seals (Phoca groenlandica) whelp on the North Atlantic pack ice in early spring, move north in the summer and then, historically, return as far south as Nova Scotia in the fall. Because recent reports document increased sightings in the northern Gulf of Maine, we reviewed records of harp seal sightings between Kittery and Rockland, Maine to determine if this increase is also occurring in the southern Gulf. From 1997 to 2001 we found 357 confirmed reports of harp seal sightings. Most (85%) occurred in the first quarter of the year and almost all (96%) were juveniles. The total sightings for 2001 (N=238) greatly exceeded the number in any other year. The weight and health status of the seals sighted in 2001 was no different from those of previous study years. Thus, harp seals are sighted in substantial numbers in both the southern and northern Gulf of Maine. The reason for this general increase, as well as the reason for the spike in 2001, is unknown.
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