Yesterday, at approximately 9:30 am, Seal Sitters received a call regarding a seal pup on the stairs at Alki Beach across from Starbucks. A volunteer immediately responded and established a protective barrier around the pup. At the same time, our volunteer coordinators swung into action and lined up volunteers for shifts.

The pup was in a secure spot and quite visible to onlookers. A number of volunteers participated, keeping people at bay and informing them about seals' needs to “haul out” and rest. Volunteers on the beach received an extra treat - witnessing the orca “J” pod feeding near Vashon Island and a fishing eagle just yards offshore! The pup seemed healthy with clear eyes and nostrils, although a series of coughing spells late in the afternoon were of concern. The pup returned to the water as an extremely high tide swept over the steps.

This is not the first time that a pup has chosen the beach steps to rest. When the tide is in and there is no beach, the pups seem to like the easy access of the steps at high tide - though it is not quite as easy to exit down the steps when the tide is out. The unusually high tides and winter storms of late leave so much beach debris that it is difficult for a pup (or adult) to maneuver onto a small stretch of sand. Additionally, they can get injured from the swirling logs and other debris.

As darkness set in, the pup was reported at two other sets of steps heading north. He/she was last seen at the boathouse. SS is keeping an especially alert eye out for the pup in case the coughing is indicative of a health issue. The pup was nicknamed "Eli". Photo by SS volunteer Ken Allen.