Grooving in the sunshine.

Seals are naturally curious.
Their fur camouflages well with the rocks - See the one on the right?

Basking in the sunshine - seals and seagulls taking it all in.
Harbour seals are recognizable from sea lions by their spotted coats, internal ears and small flippers.

Harbour seals soak up the heat from the warm rocks and sunshine.
While they may look well rounded, Harbour seals have less blubber and fur
than other members of their family and take the opportunity to conserve energy
with time out of the water.

Seal Pup hanging with Mom.
Birthing time for Harbour Seals is late July to early August.
It is important to keep well away from moms and little ones.
A long zoom lens is used for all photos.

Tofino Seals

Seals are part of the Pinnipedia family or order. Commonly referred to as Pinnipeds this order also includes fur seals, sea lions and walruses.On the West Coast of Canada the seal you usually see is the Harbour seal (Phoca vitulina). Harbour seals are curious animals and like to swim alone or in small groups.As noted above these seals conserve energy by resting on rocks. You may find them nestled together close to the waters edge basking in the sun. And if think a seal looks old - she may only be 15. The lifespan of Harbour seals is 15-25 years.

Two other types of seals that you may see in the waters of the West Coast are the Northern Fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus) which is actually more related to sea lions than seals and the Northern Elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris) which makes rare appearances.

Seals are naturally curious and also shy. You may see one pop their head out of the water to gaze at you but they won't stay up for very long. Sometimes they do kick up their heels (or fin) and hit the water to make splashes. So watch for these on your next wildlife watching trip. And, as with all animals, keep well away from resting seals and enjoy them from a distance. Respect of wildlife is part of us all living together.