A Harbor Seal at PAWS Wildlife Center

A group of volunteers called the Seal Sitters kept a watchful and protective eye on this Harbor Seal pup on a West Seattle beach when she came to shore in early September.

The volunteers were not concerned that this pup was alone, as mother seals often leave their pups for extended periods while they hunt for fish. They were concerned that the baby seal was extremely thin and in distress. The Seal Sitters obtained permission from NOAA Fisheries to have her transported to PAWS for care.

At press time, the seal was progressing well. She was feisty and could catch live fish with ease. After another month of fattening up, she will be released back to the sea where she belongs.