Marine Mammal Strandings

Seal species in the Gulf of Maine

Allied Whale monitors, assesses, and, when necessary, transports seals to rehab—helping ensure that both healthy and distressed animals receive the best care possible.

Harbor seals

The most common seal, especially in spring and summer; pups often reported by beachgoers.

Harp seals

Arctic visitors, more common in winter; juveniles are known as “beaters.”

Grey seals

 Larger than harbor seals, seen year-round with pups born in winter.

Hooded seals

Rare ocean wanderers, usually spotted as juveniles (“bluebacks”).

Cetacean strandings

The most commonly reported cetacean species in the Gulf of Maine include the harbor porpoise, the white-sided, bottlenose, and short-beaked common dolphins, along with the pygmy sperm whale, the humpback whale, the fin whale, and the common minke whale.

Most reports involve animals that are already deceased, though live strandings do occur, particularly with smaller cetaceans such as harbor porpoises and Atlantic white-sided dolphins. For large dead whales, Allied Whale conducts necropsies to determine the cause of death and collect important scientific data, and in some cases skeletons and samples are prepared for educational or research purposes.

Volunteer network and collaboration

Allied Whale partners with a network of trained volunteers, local agencies, and regional groups to monitor the coastline, assess animals, and transport them when needed. We work with the Marine Mammals of Maine and other partners for expanded response and temporary animal holding.

We are very grateful for our volunteers and all the work they do. Without our volunteers, we would not be able to make as much of a difference in the world of marine mammals. To become a volunteer, please email us at alliedwhale@coa.edu or call our office at 207-288-5644.

Contact and support

• Stranding emergency: 207-288-5644 (office) or 207-266-1326 (cell)
• Email: alliedwhale@coa.edu
• Support our research