Hungry Seals in Ketchikan Alaska

Video Description:

After returning from a winter sport fishing trip near Ketchikan, Alaska, we were back at Bar Harbor cleaning our catch. As we tossed the fish carcasses over the side of the boat, several harbor seals quickly appeared, drawn by the scent and sound of an easy meal. They swam right up to the boat, devouring the scraps just feet from where we stood—an up-close look at the natural cycle of life along Alaska’s coast.

Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) are common along the Pacific coastline and are year-round residents in the waters around Ketchikan. Known for their spotted gray coats and curious nature, these marine mammals are opportunistic feeders. Their diet typically includes fish, squid, and crustaceans, but they won’t hesitate to take advantage of a free meal like discarded fish carcasses from local boats.

Seeing them so close was a special reminder of how connected life is on the water here. These moments are common for Alaskan harbors in winter, where the seals become part of the everyday rhythm of coastal life.