Seals

We saw a pair of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) relaxing on the net pens behind the bait shop (we think they probably were eating bait fish out of the pen?oops!). Seals are some of the few creatures that are usually less affected by oil than most marine animals. Many mammals rely on fur to insulate their bodies, and oil destroys the fur's insulating quality. Seals, on the other hand, rely on layers of blubber to insulate them, so generally suffer fewer effects from oil. Seals are unlikely to directly consume oil; however, they can consume it indirectly when they groom their pups. Young and immature seals are more at risk when they come in contact with oil. There is also evidence that harbor seals may be harmed by inhaling oil vapors.

Pinnipeds (walruses, seals, and sea lions) are considered to have the ability to detect and avoid oil and other petroleum products in the water. However, there have been many incidents in which seals, sea lions, and fur seals have swum directly into an affected area, not seeming to notice the oil slick.

(08.09.04, Edmonds, Washington)