We continue to have a number of seals relaxing at the Port of Seattle’s Jack Block Park. Each morning with regularity, one can see anywhere from 2-9 seals of all ages hauled out on the docks and beaches there. It is testament to the combined efforts of Seal Sitters volunteers and a very respectful public that the seals are remaining throughout the day, dependent on tidal action. In years past, seals who had rested on the old abandoned dock overnight would hastily return to the water at daylight with any human (or canine) activity. This year, however, they seem more secure - perhaps because the public is aware that this rest is so vital to their survival. Seal Sitters has posted signs that seals have excellent hearing and to please observe quietly. While they are certainly a species at the top of the food chain, they are also prey animals and, as such, are terribly wary and skittish.

Rehab Ruby (see related posts) was on the open beach early Sunday morning and yet another pup was found resting there yesterday. Our responder immediately closed the beach to protect the pup. Due to beach erosion, Port maintenance workers moved the entrance to the public beach back closer to the parking lot. Now, however, when one enters the beach, it is not possible to see if a seal is resting there. Please be extra cautious when entering - or, even better, take the extra minute and scan the beach from behind the railing closer to the pier before entering. Since the Park is closed at night, it appears that pups are coming ashore there to sleep and sometimes are still resting when the Park reopens early the next morning.

Please be sure to call our hotline @ 206-905-7325 (SEAL) if you see a pup on the public-accessible beach.

Tags: Ruby