West Seattle’s beloved babies

| Environment | West Seattle beaches | West Seattle video | Wildlife

We keep trying to catch up with the Seal Sitters who have been keeping watch for weeks to protect the baby harbor seals that turn up to take a break on the beach at Alki. Almost connected after hearing about their 1 pm picnic on Sunday — then rain forced them indoors — but at least our videographer found one of the seals. Adorability awaits:

One WSB reader asked us if the Seal Sitters are on duty 24 hours a day. Seal-sitter organizer Brenda Peterson says they’ve been trying their best to cover most of the clock, as volunteer availability allows. (If you’re interested in volunteering, e-mail us and we’ll forward her your contact info.) Wondering why Seal Sitters are needed? Here’s just one anecdote underscoring the need. You can read more about harbor seals and the laws protecting them here.

Kayleigh September 17, 2007 (9:32 am)

So cute!

Damiana September 17, 2007 (12:38 pm)

I’m a little late to the game with these cuties, but aree they being taken care of by a mama seal or are they too old for that?

Jiggers September 17, 2007 (12:54 pm)

Seal meat is tasty!!

WSB September 17, 2007 (1:05 pm)

Damiana – mom seals will sometimes leave their babies on a beach to wait for them while they go off to find food. That’s why experts stress that babies seen on beaches like this should not be approached, or treated as if they are lost or in trouble — in the majority of cases, the mom comes back for them, or they see her offshore and head back out.