NOT Ella

The Marine Mammal Center rescued the first elephant seal pup of the season. The MMC volunteers named the pup Kickoff, for kicking off the season.

He (or she, sex not yet determined) is far too thin. He appears to have molted his black natal pelage, so he's had some nursing experience.

Diana Kramer, site manager for the San Luis Obispo facility in Morro Bay, notes that Kickoff shows the “peanut head” (dip between head and shoulders), prominent hip bone area, and loose baggy skin that are typical of starving pups. "This indicated to us Kickoff was significantly underweight and needed rescue," she said. 

These mothers are showing some indications of the loss of blubber in their necks. They are all thin after nursing their pups.

Kickoff will get the supportive care he needs and be released when he is able to manage on his own.