Harbor seal moms are now giving birth all over the South Puget Sound region and will continue to do so until early September (as late as October in Hood Canal - see pupping season map).

In the ideal world, pups are born on remote beaches, far from potential interference from humans and dogs. However, births also occur on marina docks, log booms, offshore platforms, boat launches and beaches popular for swimming and kayaking.

Shown in the photo here are two moms with their pups resting on a logboom breakwater near a marina. The chubby pup (center) appears close to being weaned and a small, newborn pup is in the background. Pups are generally weaned at around 4 weeks old.

Please respect wildlife’s need to rest and nurse their young. Whether you’re on land or in a watercraft, please keep your distance to avoid disturbance and possible abandonment. All marine mammals are protected from harassment by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Visit Seal Sitters’ dedicated website page for more information on harbor seals and pups.

Tags: Pupping season