Which seal species are typical of Arctic waters?

The phocids, or hair seals, are the primary seal species found in the Arctic. The ringed seal and the bearded seal are considered typical Arctic species, as they are nonmigratory and inhabit these northern waters year-round.1

In addition to these resident species, the harp seal and the hooded seal are also found in the Arctic, though they are considered migrant species. These seals rely on the Arctic environment for critical life stages, such as breeding, molting, and rearing their young on pack ice.231