Two weaners & a knowledgeable teen

Harbor seal pups leave their mothers at 4-6 weeks. Thereafter, they are affectionately called “weanlings” or “weaners.” Two of these young animals appeared in West Seattle recently.

Muffin at Alki Beach

The first weaner hauled out at Alki Beach in February. Hotline operator Karin alerted First Responders Victoria and John M, who set up a perimeter to protect “Muffin.” Beach Volunteer Danielle answered questions from curious observers. As night was falling, First Responder David kept watch until Muffin went into the water.

First Responder John sends this note from the busy scene:

“One individual was at the site for quite a while watching us and the seal. His name is R___, a 6th grade student at Madison Middle School. . . While he was shadowing us I realized that he was very well versed on marine mammals and didn’t hesitate to share his wisdom with others. At the end of our shift, he volunteered to help us remove the perimeter equipment. I offered him a spot in Seal Sitters MMSN when he gets older.”

When Muffin appeared the next day at the public boat ramp in deteriorating body condition, KC and John from SR3 captured the weaner and took her to SR3’s marine mammal hospital. The intake exam revealed Muffin had severe pneumonia, lungworm and other parasites. She responded well to treatment for 2 weeks but died of severe subcutaneous emphysema.

A second weaner hauled out at a crowded Constellation Park beach in March. Hotline Operator Dana directed Responders David, Lynn and John S to the site. They transported the lethargic, thin and coughing seal to the SR3 hospital. Seal Sitters volunteers are saddened to learn this female seal, like Muffin, died of pneumonia after 10 days.

Weaner at Constellation Park