Scientists: Seal pup found on coast not dying

Scientists: Seal pup found on coast not dying

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Story Published: May 11, 2008 at 7:34 PM PST

Story Updated: Nov 20, 2008 at 6:41 PM PST

By KATU Web Staff

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CANNON BEACH, Ore. – A young elephant seal on the beach here looks like it is distressed and dying, but authorities said it is just going through a natural process of molting.

That means all of its old hair is replaced by a shiny new coat.

It's something all elephant seals deal with every year. But it is usually not so visible.

The seal pup can be seen right outside Mo's Restaurant and the Tolovana Inn in Cannon Beach.

Scientists said you can help it out by just giving it space.

Keith Chandler of the Marine Mammal Stranding Network said the seal could stay on the beach for up to two weeks before its sores heal up and it is ready to get back in the ocean.

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