This seal was laying on the ice today at Rainbow Haven Beach, just near the bridge. I’m guessing it’s a Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina). I don’t know how long he or she has been there and whether or not a rescue of some kind is needed. Hopefully the rising tides will allow it to get back to the ocean okay.
Aw…I really hope it’s ok and makes it’s way back to sea!
It wasn’t there this morning so it definitely made its way out of the inlet ok. It sure was cute even though it wasn’t a baby and it looked pretty happy out there. I’ve never seen seals there before but some people apparently do see them in that area. I was thrilled to get a glimpse and a photo of one this time.
How wonderful to see the seal and capture this photo! How exciting…. Glad to hear it made it back out the inlet.
Well done seal! 🙂
Actually, given the silver coat with black spots, this little guy may well be a juvenile harp seal visiting from Arctic waters! The fact that his head and tail are both lifted, giving him a “banana” pose, and the fact that he’s alert probably indicates he’s healthy & just checking the place out!
Thanks for your insights Andiana. I especially appreciate learning about the banana pose. Someone had mentioned seeing a white baby seal a while ago around that area so it’s indeed possible that you are correct in thinking this is a harp seal.
OK this is from a year ago. When you say near the bridge, do you mean near the shooting range ? Someone today told me they saw a seal on the ice but I couldn’t find it. Your picture is amazing. Was he really close ?
Yes Sybil, this was in that small body of water that looks like a lake near the shooting range. I took the photo not too far from the bridge. He was a way out on the ice. The photo is clear probably because it was such a bright sunny day with excellent visibility.