Pup at San Simeon Cove

A pup is reported born on the beach at San Simeon Cove. Here's a picture:

This creates an issue about public use of the beach. The seals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act from human disturbance. They are also dangerous to humans, and it's a constant concern to keep humans from interacting with them.

It looks like another female is keeping her company.

State Parks has posted a seasonal restriction on the beach, notifying the public to stay at least 100 feet away from the pup. The Coastal Discovery Center has posted a docent at the entrance to the beach to inform the public. Rangers are on patrol all the time.

Three to five males lurk around the beach, keeping an eye on the situation.

 One male rests on the beach 50 yards from the mother and pup. He's the lump on the right, she's at the left, above the high tide line. It was a minus tide when I took these pictures, so the water will come up higher.

He appears comfortable enough to be patient.

On January 20, there appear to be three females on the beach. Only the one on the far right has a pup thus far.