Breeding occurs as far north as the ice-free waters of the arctic, south to New Hampshire. During the winter, the population moves south, and is primarily found from southern Maine to Long Island. The pup will nurse for a month, during which time the bond between the pair is strong. Mothers recognize their pups through a combination of smell and sound. After that, though, it has to figure out much of life for itself.
Most pups initially feed on small prey which is easy to catch, like small amphipods and shrimp.
Mating takes place in the water shortly after a pup is weaned. Seals acquired protection with the passage of the Marine Mammal Protection Act in 1972, which protected all marine mammals. Since then, the population in New England has increased dramatically.