Harbor Seal pups are being born on secluded beaches. While the mothers are busy with their sweet pups, it looks like the males were hanging out together at Gualala Point Regional Park.

Mark Hancock wrote, “Laverne and I went for a hike, hoping to see the Bald eagles – we didn’t, Gray Whales – we did, and walk the beach to the river mouth.

“We were delighted to see 40 Harbor Seals hauled out on the north end of the river mouth, or in the river itself, so we laid out our picnic on the south bank and watched the seals. One of the bigger ones was unhappy that ‘his’ spot was occupied, and he chased the occupant away and into the river.

“We were particularly amused by how the Harbor Seals raised their head and tails when the waves came over the top of the beach and flowed down through where they were laid out.”

Here's two favorite photos of Harbor Seals, both taken by Robert Scarola a few years ago. The first shows a seal managing not to get swept off the rock by the surf. The second shows what bliss it is to be on the Mendonoma coast!

Thanks to Mark and Robert for allowing me to share their photos with you here.