Jack Block Park has been a popular spot of late for seals of all ages, where they can rest in relative safety since all beaches are fenced off from the public. This morning a rather robust pup (for a weaner, that is) was lounging on the dock with a larger seal of undetermined age shown here. Late in the afternoon, Seal Sitters received a call on the hotline about a pup on the beach at Jack Block. Our responder observed a pup that had been both branded and tagged. Photos have been sent to WDFW for information regarding this pup. Additionally, we received a call about a seal pup at the boatramp, however, no pup was found. So, pinnipeds are still popping up out there! Remember that the older seals get, the more wary they become and thus are more likely to be scared back into the water. Since the dock is quite close to the walk, please keep this in mind and observe them quietly.

UPDATE: According to WDFW, the tagged pup was handled at a South Puget Sound rookery in September as part of a long-term research study. The blue tag signifies male and the pink “streamer” is used by researchers to determine id if only a partial number on the blue tag is visible. After analysis of the photo, the brand appears to be healing and Seal Sitters will monitor the pup as long as he remains on our shores. We will post additional info on this pup as we receive it.