12 hours new. Harbor Seal. Moss Beach, California

Harbor seal pup with umbilical still attached.

Harbor seals staked claim to a Moss Beach reef in the early 2000's. They are permanent residents. During spring, the many pregnant females give birth. Harbor seals are social, shy of humans (unlike sea lions) and nurse for several weeks in the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. This area part of the Monterey Bay sanctuary. Bald sea dogs.