Tag Archives: Harbor Seals

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Bull Kelp, Nereocystis leutkeana, grows as forests in the Pacific Ocean off the Mendocino and Sonoma Coast. Right now the waters close to shore are showing healthy forests. Bull Kelp is an annual and its growth rate is phenomenal. Winter storms will rip the holdfasts from the ocean floor and waves will fling many onto beaches. Once Rick and I went to Bowling Ball Beach after a big storm. There in the mounds of kelp were many beautiful abalone shells - a gift from Mother Nature!

Kelp needs nutrient rich waters to grow. The upwelling that occurs here is necessary for the Kelp's growth. Many creatures depend on this plant. Small fish hide in the kelp from bigger ones. Seabirds have been seen to rest on the surface mats. It's believed CA Sea Lions and Harbor Seals feed on it. And it's known that Sea Urchins feed on it.

Tomorrow I will show you a cute photo of Harbor Seals draped in kelp and you will read about what is it like to dive amongst kelp.

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Craig  suggested the caption, "Bad breath?" It sure fits. Take a look at his photo of two Harbor Seals taken at The Sea Ranch. I hope it will make you smile!

To see more of Craig's photos, go to: http://ruffimage.com/

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Harbor Seals come to a safe cove on The Sea Ranch and other secluded places on the Mendonoma Coast in the spring. They are very endearing, which makes for some wonderful photos. Craig Tooley sent me this sweet photo showing the interaction and love between a pup and its mom.

To see more of Craig's photos, go to: http://web.me.com/theruffians1

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Sometimes a big wave will hit a group of Harbor Seals and it's fun to watch them try and hold onto their places. Betty Bailey took a photo right when a wave hit and was kind enough to allow me to share it here.

Harbor Seals are year-round residents of the nearshore waters of the Mendonoma Coast. They are curious animals and often lift their heads out of the water to look around. If Harbor Seals thrive it's an indication that their entire ecosystem is doing well as they feed at the top of the food chain. We are lucky to have pristine waters off our beautiful coast.

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Harbor Seal moms haul out on secluded beaches to give birth at this time of year. One place where they come year after year is Tide Pool at The Sea Ranch. Professional photographer Craig Tooley took these two pictures this week and has given me permission to share them with you. You can see more of Craig's work at http://web.me.com/theruffians1/RufImage. Harbor Seals are among the most photogenic of Mother Nature's creatures!