September 10: First seal pup on the Isthmus!

There has been a competition running on Station to guess the date of the birth of the  first elephant seal pup of the season. Our Station Mechanic was the eagle eye who spotted this little fella on the morning of the 10th September. The Station Electrician took the prize!
The elephant seal pups have a black furry coat which is all skin rolls waiting to grow into.  This they achieve rapidly as soon as they start feeding.
They are quite feeble and stay close to the cow seal, making the most amusing barking sounds, to call out to their mother. Skuas lurk all around, at first to feed on the placenta after the birth and then to take advantage of any weak pups who stray too far from their mother.
The pups have imploring big wet eyes that are a most endearing sight.

Thanks to Lionel Whitehorn our Station Mechanic for the great pictures.

** I managed to fall off a tussock mound and hurt my foot, and can't walk around for a few weeks.  I hope you enjoy the guest photography!! Thanks to everyone who offered to contribute so I could keep the Blog going!**

First seal pup on the Isthmus for 2015. Photo: Lionel Whitehorn

Elephant seal cow and pup. Photo: Lionel Whitehorn

Skuas keeping a close watch on the prospect of a meal. Photo: Lionel Whitehorn

Elephant seal mother and pup. Photo: Lionel Whitehorn