Maternity Ward

Wednesday December 7 

Animals usually choose to give birth at a time and place conducive to the survival and successful develpment of their young. Why would Atlantic Grey Seals choose an exposed, windswept heap of sand during a December day when the temperature was only 3C and the heavy showers wintry? 

Pam forgot her camera when we were last here a week or so ago. To-day, she was ready. So was I - but the owner was in the kiosk and very firm with her directions of where to park. I could see part of the beach from the car through the front windscreen, enjoying watching the male seals patrolling the surf, looking for mating opportunities. The main beach had many more seals, and over 50 pups scattered amongst them. Pam offered to take some photos for me, using my camera and long lens. All these are taken by her.

 

Babies fed from their parent


 

Watchful females saw off any males which encroached on feeding time.



Gulls fed on the nutrient rich placentas


Others rested



Many of the pups till had their umbilical cords freshly red, they must have been born this morning.

 

Thanks Pam, you did a really good job holding my heavy camera with arthritic fingers and shoulders. Well done.

Driving through Ingham on the Happisburgh Road, there were wild swans again, A dozen Whoopers and two Bewicks.

 

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