Previous Page Photo-Diary of a Terrapin Researcher  Next Page

Don Lewis, Massachusetts Audubon Society,
Fox Island Wildlife Management Area

Merry Christmas — 21 December 2000

The juvenile harp seal first spotted off Fox Island on 16 December has not been seen since the 18th.  I’ve checked the marsh extensively since then and she has clearly moved on.  When it comes to these seals, especially those which appear so healthy and well-nourished as this young one, it’s great news when they move out on their own.  It usually means they’ve just stopped by for a brief rest after a goodly journey.  According to the Mammal Stranding Network, she was the first juvenile harp seal reported on the Cape this season; the next day another healthy pup was discovered on an Upper Cape beach.

Best wishes for a great holiday season from the still snowless Great White North!