Harbor seal pups often rest on beaches, leading people to mistakenly believe they are stranded. These pups are usually waiting for their mothers to return from foraging for food. The Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network (OMMSN) emphasizes the importance of leaving these pups undisturbed. A mother seal is unlikely to approach her pup if humans are nearby, often choosing to return only at night for nursing. Interfering with this natural process, especially by moving the pup, significantly reduces its chances of survival.
Harbor seal pups wean from their mothers within three to four weeks after birth. This transition to independence is a crucial and challenging period in their lives. During this time, young seals frequently haul out onto the Rock Face, or other beach areas, to rest while learning to hunt and survive on their own. This period is fraught with danger, and not all pups survive the ordeal. Although well-intentioned, human intervention often harms rather than helps. The best course of action is to observe from a distance and allow nature to take its course.
The rocky shores provide a critical habitat for these young seals, offering a safe haven for rest and a platform to learn crucial survival skills. Witnessing a pup alone on the rock face might be concerning, but it’s a normal part of their development. The seemingly harsh reality of the rock face is an essential training ground for these young animals. It allows them to develop their strength, agility, and hunting prowess, preparing them for the challenges of life in the open ocean.
If you encounter a seal pup on the rock face or beach, resist the urge to intervene. Remember, your presence could unintentionally separate the pup from its mother. Instead, report your sighting to park staff at 541-347-2209 ext 221, the park office, or the 24-hour Oregon State Police hotline at 800-452-7888. Provide a detailed description of the situation and the animal’s location so the OMMSN can assess the situation.
For further information on marine mammal strandings and how to help, visit the OMMSN website (http://mmi.oregonstate.edu/ommsn) and their guide on Stranding Dos and Don’ts (http://mmi.oregonstate.edu/ommsn/outreach/dos-donts).
