Our marine year-round residents are always a fun sight, whether from the water’s edge or lounging on the sand, they are a staple here on Nantucket. As pupping season gets underway, there’s a flurry of activity along the shore, and we encourage everyone to be mindful when walking or driving on the beaches.

The island is home to four seal species, two of which are more abundant - the gray seal and the harbor seal. Hooded seals and harp seals have been spotted here, but due to their dependence on pack ice for breeding, their range is restricted to areas where pack ice forms seasonally, and may be a reason why we don't see them as often.