This morning a routine early beach sweep by Seal Sitters revealed a small pup that had just hauled out to rest onshore. The pup exhibited symptoms of an infection with a significant green discharge from the right ear. NOAA’s stranding expert was contacted and it was determined to observe the pup throughout the day. The pup, however, returned to the Sound about two hours later. Photos showing close-ups of the face as well as body structure were sent to NOAA and WDFW for examination.

At approximately 1pm this afternoon, SS dispatch received a report of a pup on a stretch of nearby beach. Volunteers arrived on the scene to keep people away on a busy, cold and sunny afternoon. The pup, nicknamed “Ozzie” by volunteers, returned to the water at 4pm. Photos have positively identified the pup as the same one observed earlier this morning. SS will check the beaches at first light to see if the pup appears again tomorrow and await the diagnosis from Fish & Wildlife biologists.