Pupping Season at Point Lobos Marine Reserve

When I planned our trip to Point Lobos Marine Reserve near Monterey, I didn’t realize we would be there just in the heart of “pupping season” for harbor seals. After a 9 month gestation period similar to that of a human, mother seals give birth on the beaches where they themselves were likely born. Nocturnal hunters, they spend their days sleeping on the shores or floating on their backs in the shallow waters of Point Lobos.

Besides the joy of seeing the baby seals, we were treated to an incredible variety of birds, otters, and unique flowers and plants. I was particularly drawn to the courting rituals of the Brandt’s Cormorant as the male presented his choice female with a bunch of grasses. As a huge fan of the series Planet Earth, I was thrilled to be able to recognize the display of affection that was occurring before us.

Each visit to the coast brings with it another unexpected surprise.