The population of seals continues to grow on the beach. In
fact, they're getting down right crowded and peak season is
still a month away.
Last year saw over 2,000 births.
The high waves this winter caused
lots of gasps and shouts on the beach when this newborn pup
was washed down the beach. Mom headed down the beach and coaxed
it back up, as well as putting herself between it and the water.
The pup was still looking for a teat when I left. Luckily, the
mother is experienced and kept putting it close.
The sea gulls swept in to fight over afterbirth
when this pup was born. I missed the birth by just minutes.
With the beach getting crowded, the females were spending
more time fighting. And they were biting and holding on.
Fights occured over rude children, protecting children, beach
space, position near males and just because.
