It's that time of year - Harbor Seal pups are being born. Carol Hunter got a photo of one of the very first pups of 2014.

Harbor Seal pups and their moms bond right after birth. It is quite endearing to see. Below is a photo from last year of a pup nuzzling its mom. It was taken by Craig Tooley.

After birthing, the mother Harbor Seal will leave her pup on the beach while she hunts for fish. Never try to "rescue" a pup or any other marine mammal. If you believe one needs help, call the Marine Mammal Center at 415) 289-7325 or 415)289-SEAL.

Thanks to Carol and Craig for allowing me to share their photos with you here.
To see much more of Craig's nature photographs, here is his website: www.ruffimage.com