OpticDistraction Photoblog

March 20^th, 2007

Two consecutive days here in Toyon Bay have brought us some unbelievably adorable pinniped youngsters. Both made temporary homes from our kayaking program - the sea lion (top) and elephant seal (bottom) taking residence on the kayak deck and in front of the kayaks, respectively.

We were worried about both of them upon arrival because this is “weaning season” and the mothers are pushing these young pups out into the ocean. Oftentimes the pups’ reaction goes something like this: “Oh, mother of God. Why is Mommy such a cranky jerk and what the garbage am I supposed to do now?” Many pups die as a result of simply not knowing how to feed themselves.

We thought this was the case for both animals, but after some snorkelers scared the sea lion pup back into the ocean, we watched him catch a thornback ray and rip it apart right on our beach. So he’s cool - perhaps was just in need of a serious nap.

The elephant seal, however… he’s looking thin and weary. Still moving around, but doing a lot of completely oblivious sleeping, as you can see in the photo. So today we are sending him to the marine mammal rehabilitation center… hang on little guy!

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