After a long winter off Abalone season finally opens tomorrow. Whether conditions allow for safe diving is another matter.

April 1st also is the start of watching for the first Harbor Seal pups born on beaches of the Mendonoma Coast. They are very vulnerable, especially to unleashed dogs and well-meaning people who think the pups need to rescued when they don't see the mother. The pups are fine. The mother has gone to feed. If you truly think a pup is in distress, call the Marine Mammal Center at 415) 289-7350. They will send a trained local volunteer to assess the situation.

Mark Hancock recently photographed some of the year round residents off Tide Pool Beach on The Sea Ranch and I thank him for allowing me to share his photo with you here.

To see a sweet photo of a Harbor Seal pup with its mom, here is the link: http://www.mendonomasightings.com/2011/07/27/sweet-photo-of-a-harbor-seal-pup-with-its-mom-taken-by-craig-tooley/

And to whet your appetite for abalone season, here's a link to a successful abalone hunt: http://www.mendonomasightings.com/2011/08/28/ken-bailey-dove-for-abalone-off-the-mendonoma-coast-and-came-home-with-a-hubcap-size-beauty/