Harbor seal pup attacked

A harbor seal pup was left with major injuries after what experts at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary believe to be a brutal shark attack.

The pup was spotted at Rookery Beach near Hopkins Marine Station in Pacific Grove. Thom Akeman , a docent for the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary explained that it is extremely rare for a seal pup to survive a severe attack and make it back to shore.

Most pups on Rookery Beach are only three to four months old and unable to swim far from shore. Akeman said the attack is an indicator that sharks could be swimming in shallower parts of the Monterey Bay.

” From everything we’ve seen over the years, this was as much a shark bite as I’ve ever seen a shark bite. Nobody has seen it since. We’ve looked to see if it’s in this area. We’ve looked at some nearby beaches. Whether it’s still alive or not is anybody’s guess, ” Akeman said.

Wildlife veterinarians have not been able to rescue the pup. It was first spotted in the Rookery where rules protect seals from any human interference. Akeman explained that if the animal was to show up on any other beach, they could try to nurse it back to health.

If you see an injured seal be sure to call the Marine Mammal Center at 831-633-6298 or 415-289-7325.