Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈe͡ɪ sˈiːl] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "gray seal" can be phonetically transcribed as /ɡreɪ siːl/. The first sound is a "g" followed by a long "a" sound, represented by "ai". The next sound is the "s" sound followed by a long "e" sound, represented by "ee". The final sound is "l". This spelling accurately represents the pronunciation of this species of seal, which is often found along the coastlines of Europe and North America.
The gray seal, scientifically known as Halichoerus grypus, is a large marine mammal belonging to the phocid family and found in the North Atlantic Ocean. This species is characterized by its robust body structure, with adult males typically reaching lengths of up to 3 meters and weighing around 300 kilograms, while females are slightly smaller. The gray seal is further distinguished by its grayish-brown coloration, which may vary in intensity and tone, along with its unique V-shaped nostrils.
Gray seals inhabit various habitats, including rocky coastlines, sandbanks, and offshore islands, usually preferring areas that provide them with ample food supply and sheltered spaces for breeding and molting. These highly adaptable creatures are known for their exceptional diving capacity, able to reach depths of over 100 meters in search of prey, which commonly consists of fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and sometimes squid.
Breeding season for gray seals typically occurs in the late fall, during which females gather in colonies known as rookeries or haul-outs, giving birth to a single pup after a gestation period of approximately 11 months. The newborn pups possess a soft white coat, which they moult within a few weeks, transitioning to the adult grayish coloration. Gray seals demonstrate a high level of intelligence and social behavior, forming complex social structures within their colonies and exhibiting strong bonds between mothers and offspring.
Despite historically facing threats such as hunting and habitat degradation, the gray seal population has rebounded in some areas due to conservation efforts and protective legislation. It is an important species in the marine ecosystem, contributing to the balance of marine food chains and serving as a key indicator of ocean health.
The word "gray" originates from the Old English word "grǣg" meaning "gray" or "hoary". It is related to the Old High German word "grāo" and the Old Norse word "grar", both of which also mean "gray".
The word "seal" comes from the Old English word "seolh", which is related to the Old Norse word "selr" and the Old High German word "selah". All these words refer to the marine mammal commonly known as a seal.
So, the etymology of "gray seal" is derived from the Old English and Old Norse words for "gray" and the Old English, Old High German, and Old Norse words for "seal".
