Harbor seal pups are frequently observed resting on The Rock Face and beaches. This behavior is often mistaken for stranding, leading to unnecessary human intervention. Understanding why these pups are alone is crucial for their survival. Mother seals leave their pups on the rock face or shore while foraging for food. According to the Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network (OMMSN), adult female seals are cautious and avoid returning to their pups if human activity is detected nearby. They often wait until nightfall to nurse their young, ensuring minimal disturbance.
Interfering with this natural process, especially by moving a pup, significantly reduces its chances of survival. The mother, unable to locate her offspring, may abandon it. For the first 3-4 weeks of life, harbor seal pups rely entirely on their mother’s milk. Once weaned, they face the challenging task of learning to hunt and survive independently. During this period, frequent rest on the rock face is essential for conserving energy.
This transition to independence is a critical period with a high mortality rate. While observing a seemingly vulnerable pup on the rock face may evoke concern, human intervention is rarely necessary. The pup’s best chance of survival lies in remaining undisturbed in its natural environment. Resist the urge to “rescue” the pup, as this well-intentioned action can be detrimental.
If genuine concern arises regarding a seal pup’s health or safety on the rock face, contact trained professionals. Report your observations to park staff, the park office (541-347-2209 ext 221), or the 24-hour Oregon State Police hotline at 800-452-7888. Provide a detailed description of the situation and the animal’s precise location to facilitate appropriate action by the OMMSN.
For further information on marine mammal strandings and appropriate responses, consult the OMMSN website (http://mmi.oregonstate.edu/ommsn) and their guidelines on “Stranding Dos and Don’ts” (http://mmi.oregonstate.edu/ommsn/outreach/dos-donts).
