THE SEAL 



the water by a strong and sudden movement of the hind-limbs. When once on 

 land, they may remain there for days and even weeks together, till compelled by 

 hunger to return to the sea. 



The senses of the seal are highly developed. The eye, for instance, is full 

 and globular, and thus specially adapted to catch every ray of light when the 

 animal is in the water. It is noteworthy that seals can shed tears under the 

 influence of excitement, and especially when in pain. And the idea of the ancients 

 that these animals are attracted by music and singing appears to be founded on 

 fact. 



Their usual cry is a sharp bark, but when angered they give vent to dog- 

 like snarlings. Seals always associate in parties, which may comprise hundreds 

 of individuals. The young, which are beautiful little creatures, are tenderly and 

 affectionately nurtured by their parents, who protect them from danger by every 

 means in their power. 



Young seals have a coat quite different from that of the adult ; this baby 

 coat in the case of the second British species, the grey seal (Halichcsrus gryftus), 

 being wholly white. In colour, the common seal varies greatly, the coat being 

 sometimes yellowish and sometimes light grey with blackish mottlings and 

 marblings. The so-called grey seal is generally much darker in colour, but is best 

 distinguished from the common species by its greatly superior size and its 

 relatively larger and blunter teeth. 



All seals are polygamous, which leads to fights among the males for the 

 possession of the females ; but in other respects they are gentle and affectionate, 

 easily tamed if taken young, and displaying great capacity for education. As a 

 rule, only a single cub is produced at a birth, but there may be twins. 



