Two species of seals breed in Iceland, harbour (or common) seal (Phoca vitulina) and grey seal (Halichoerus grypus). At Ytri Tunga we have both species, but most of the seals on dry land are harbour seals. Four other seal species are occasionally seen in Iceland as well (harp, ringed, hooded and bearded seal).

Seals are best viewed at low tide when they may be observed lying on the shore. The ideal conditions are mild and calm weather. Binoculars are very useful while seal-watching.

• Please keep a minimum distance of 50 metres to the nearest seal. If pups are observed, a 100 m distance to the nearest seal is recommended.
• If a seal makes a sound, moves or seems alert, it might be a sign of disturbance. If that happens, please move further away.
• Females often leave their pups temporarily to go hunting. Please do not attempt to access or touch pups that appear to have been abandoned. Leave lone pups alone to allow the mother to return to her offspring normally.
• Never position yourself between a seal and the sea. It is important that the seal has easy access to the water to allow it to feel safe and secure.
• When walking towards the animals, do so with slow and calm moves. Avoid loud noises and, if talking, keep your voice low. Leave the area in the same quiet manner.
• Do not throw objects in the area close to the seals.
• Avoid using camera flash when photographing.
• Seal welfare may be negatively impacted by large groups of people in seal habitat. On arrival, if you encounter a large group of people already close to the seals, please wait until some of the people leave.
• Dogs are to be kept on leash at all times.

Following the suggestions above is important for sustainable seal watching, enabling us to observe these interesting animals in their natural habitat for years to come.