The expression on the faces of Harbor Seals is so endearing it is easy to fall in love with them. Siegfried and Gretel Matull have been studying and photographing Harbor Seals at The Sea Ranch for some years now. Recently Siegfried photographed two very relaxed seals. It seems all was peaceful in the rookery.
And then the Matulls got very lucky. A Harbor Seal gave birth right on the beach and Siegfried got the shot!
And here is the pup with its mom. Siegfried says Harbor Seal mothers are wonderful in taking care of their newborn pups. You can see they have a close, loving bond.
Thanks to Siegfried for allowing me to share his wonderful photos with you here.
Frank Drouillard
"Scratch my belly!"
Jeanne Jackson
ha! I don't think the Harbor Seal would really enjoy that, Frank. A golden retriever on the other hand...a big yes!
scott mercer
Hi Jeanne...Another great post. Your blog is a valuable service. We rent at Sea Ranch frequently and record our marine mammal sightings. I have been wondering, whom, besides my friends at NaWhaRe, is studying the whales, seals, and birds in this area. We will be in Irish Beach, from Maine, the winter of 2014, and will be doing land based sightings into April, coordinating observations with all interested parties. The names of the Sea Ranch seal researchers is really helpful.
Jeanne Jackson
Scott, I'd be happy to put you in touch with others here on the coast. Would you send me an email? And thanks for your kind words.