Photo of the Week – Harbor Seal

I don’t believe that there is a more inquisitive and charming creature then the Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina), at least as far as marine mammals are concerned. And if you want to get a close look at the seals then there is no better place to do so then the Nisqually Delta.

I’ve lost count of the times I’ve taken clients down to the delta for a tour; well over a hundred trips I’m sure. This delta for the Nisqually River is a dynamic and ever changing environment but the one constant is the profusion of seals in the area. They love it. I’m sure the food source is part of the reason as well as the number of protected haul outs they can enjoy.

On this particular trip, Jason and I arrived for a scheduled evening trip, but due to the weather, no clients showed. Rather than be discouraged this gave us the perfect opportunity to go and do a bit of photography which isn’t so easy with a large group.

Once this guy had a peek at us to see what we where, he became completely disinterested in us. If fact, the seals here have gotten so use to paddlers that I’ve seen them try to haul out on kayak back decks. Another time while holding a Rescue & Recovery class near here, I had pups swimming between my legs while I demonstrated a solo rescue.

And I haven’t even touched on the bird life in the area!