THE NORTHERN ELEPHANT SEAL IN OREGON: A PUPPING RANGE EXTENSION AND ONSHORE OCCURRENCE Janet Hodder 1998, Marine Mammal Science The Hawaiian Center for Whale Research is the name under which the Kewalo Basin Marine Mammal Laboratory's humpback whale research program now operates. Except for the time spent on the rookery during the breeding season and a month or so ashore while undergoing the molt, the Northern elephant seal is truly a pelagic mammal. This eared seal is best known for its short nose and round head. Pacific harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) Seal Rock State Recreation Site Near Newport, Oregon, United States Located south of Newport, Seal Rock State Wayside features large off-shore rock formations that provide habitat for seals, sea lions, sea birds and other marine life. It was nearly wiped out in the commercial fur trade but now is protected by federal and international laws. Pups are 3 to 4 feet (1 m) long at birth and weigh about 70 pounds (32 kg). However, they come ashore to rest on beaches, reefs, and glacial ice drifts. They haul-out to rest at low tide on sand bars in most bays and estuaries along the Oregon coast. The elephant seals do not eat while they are at the rookery. harbor seal mother often leaves her pup alone, ODFWs policy on marine mammal rehabilitation, A Pacific harbor seal and her pup rest near Depoe Bay. Sea otters have short, paddle-like tails and webbed feet and are larger than river otters. This animal gets its name from its size as well as the trunk-like nose known as a proboscis that is found on males and can be inflated to enhance vocalizations during mating season. The Steller, the largest of the sea lions, is typically found near remote reefs and rocky haul out areas, particularly off the south coast, as well as in the lower Columbia River. Some pass through Oregon to head north to feed during fall and winter months. But while it may be tempting to take them in, their best chance for survival is to be left alone on the beach. Steller sea lions vocalize by making a growling sound. Not only do they routinely dive to 600 meters (the depth record previously held by Weddell seals), but they occasionally dive three times as deep: up to 1,800 meters, over a mile. Although the population of Steller sea lions in Oregon is stable and slightly increasing, they are listed as a Threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The males are the first to arrive here, in December, in an effort to stake out a claim on the beach they hope to dominate. Drakes Beach: starting at the southern edge of the cove in front of the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center and continuing southwest (e.g., towards Chimney Rock; to the right as one faces the bay) to the current permanent elephant seal closure; the beach from the Chimney Rock Lifeboat Station to Chimney Rock; the road leading from the gate at the end of the Chimney Rock Road to the Fish Dock area, including immediately adjacent beaches. Click on the following links to find out more about viewing opportunities for these species and to learn about their habitats and behaviors: Birds Coho Salmon Elephant Seals Tule Elk Whales. Adults are 10 to 13 feet (3-4 meters) long and weigh 1,300-4,400 lbs (590-1,996 kilograms). (1,179 KB PDF). Use binoculars, telephoto lenses, and spotting scopes for a better view of the animals. And elephant seals are molting now while it isnt pretty, these animals are not sick. These include the mighty gray whale,the awe-inspiring killer whale, and the charming and intelligent bottlenose dolphin. The annual cycle begins in November with the arrival of mature males at the end of the month. Email: mmi_web@oregonstate.eduInformation Sheet, Geospatial Ecology of Marine Megafauna Lab, Laboratory for Animal Behavioral Interaction Research in the Ocean, Marine Mammal Bioacoustics and Ecology Lab, Whale Habitat, Ecology, and Telemetry Lab, Commonly Stranded - Northern Elephant Seal, Sea Lion Disentanglement Capture Cage Deployed at Newport's Bayfront , Sea Lion Disentanglement Capture Cage Deployed at Newport's Bayfront, Color variable (gray to tan to brownish-black), with dark spots or mottling, Color dark brown; juveniles and females lighter, Extreme sexual dimorphism, males much larger than females, Males with prominent sagittal crest (light colored point on top of head), muscular neck, Color light brown to blond, darker ventrally than dorsally, Adult males much larger than females; thick mane of fur around neck, Adult males have large inflatable proboscis, Catastrophic Molt occurs annually April-August; they often appear sick, but this is a normal process, Color is dark gray dorsally, lighter gray laterally; throat and belly mostly white, Medium-sized dorsal fin is triangular in shape, located at mid-body, Teeth are spade shaped (flat on top), not pointed, Mouth contains short (about 10 inches long), light colored baleen plates, No dorsal fin, but a hump followed by a series of bumps running caudally down back, Barnacles and whale lice grow over surface of body, particularly on the head. Main Phone (503) 947-6000 The kelp forests, which are not far off shore, and the shallowness of the sea bed could help the seals avoid predation since shark attacks are more common in deeper water. The skin and fur come off in sheets as new skin and fur replace the old. Pups weigh about 10 pounds and they can swim at birth. View full size Keith Chandler/Seaside Aquarium Elephant seals such as this one are showing up on Oregon's beaches to molt. ), or speak with a ranger. The Northern elephant seal is the largest pinniped carnivore that occurs along the North Pacific coast. Male California sea lions are commonly seen in Oregon from September through May. They can swim up to 25 miles per hour. Then pregnant females begin to arrive and, soon thereafter, give birth to a single pup (or, in an extremely rare case, twins). Frequent Questions Feeding or Harassing Marine Mammals in the Wild. Pups are born between December and March, weighing around 60 pounds, and have a black coat. Some rooms pet friendly. River otters are sometimes mistaken for sea otters, as they sometimes venture into the marine environment. It changes their natural behaviors, including feeding and migration activities, and decreases their willingness to forage for food on their own. It is very important not to interfere with this process, and especially not to move a pup from where it is receiving care from its mother. But as bad as molting animals may look, they are going through a normal and necessary process, and are usually are not stranded. Stellers are also found year-around in smaller numbers at the Sea Lion Caves and at Cape Arago State Park. Harassment of seals and sea lions on the U.S. western coast has gotten way out of hand, officials say. The Peter Behr Overlook may be reached by following a steep, narrow paved path from the southwest corner of the parking lot to a bluff-top viewpoint. Elephant seals like large sandy beaches that do not have a significant human presence. For your safety, and the safety of the seals on the beach below, please stay on the paved path and do not go over or around the wooden fencing at the end of the paved trail. It is surpassed only by its relative the southern elephant seal. They are a pelagic species, meaning they live primarily in the open ocean, where they hunt fish and squid. Female elephant seals nurse their pups for about 1 month before weaning (stop nursing) it abruptly. They have low productivity. Pups make a bleating noise that sounds like, "maaaa.". Below, you will find pictures and descriptions of the types of seals and sea lions in Oregon. A Pacific harbor seal and her pup rest near Depoe Bay. However, their deep diving nature and proximity to shore puts them at risk from human impacts such as increased ocean noise. Fish and Wildlife Service is lead on conservation and recovery of sea turtles on nesting beaches. Sign up for my weekly emails and and receive my 179 page eBook "Bird Feeding Secrets" in your inbox. Oregon harbor seal pups are born in May and June and weigh about 30 pounds at birth. Photo by Frank Schulenburg. Unlike other mammals, including humans, that shed hair year-round, elephant seals experience this a one time a year molting. They come ashore to shed their first layer of skin and fur. Since 1993, the average growth rate has slowed to 89% per year. The head is large and rounded, the eyes are large, the limbs are short, and the . Northern elephant seals' diet primarily consists of squid and fishes, but they also consume rays and sharks. The trail is closed March 1- June 30 to protect seal pups. Assess the status of the . Northern Elephant Seals (lack visible ear flap) are the deepest diving and the largest sea mammals. Cali-fornia Fish and Game 56:137. This natural process takes weeks to complete, and is often marked by irregular breathing, weepy eyes, runny noses, and damaged-looking skin. Sea lions have long fore flippers and hind flippers that can rotate forward. 4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE :: Salem, OR 97302 :: Main Phone (503) 947-6000 or (800) 720-ODFW [6339] Distinguishing features include a small external ear flap. Share your opinion or comments on a Fish and Wildlife Commission issue at: odfw.commission@odfw.oregon.gov A part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Simpson Reef, Shell Island, and surrounding rocks and reefs are the largest haul-out for marine mammals on the Oregon Coast. The Stellar sea lion, Northern elephant seal and Pacific harbor seal are Oregon Conservation Strategy Species. Sea turtles are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Elephant seals are shielded from extreme cold more by their blubber than by fur. Do you have a question or comment for ODFW? They are also found on nearshore rocks and islands usually within 3 miles of the coast. Weaned pups weigh about 400 pounds; the weaner then begins to go through a fasting period where it uses its stored fat to survive. Seals and sea lions are pinnipeds (fin-footed animals). California Sea Lions vocalize for different purposes, including to attract mates, warn off intruders to their territory, and, most interestingly, to communicate with their young. miles.phillips@oregonstate.edu Move away cautiously if behaviors are observed that indicate the animal is stressed. Steller sea lions in Alaska are listed as Endangered under the ESA as the number of animals there have declined over 60-80% during the last 29 years. The elephant seal has been one of TOPP's stars. 4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE Northern elephant seals spend about 9 months of the year in the ocean. The huge male northern elephant seal typically weighs 1,500-2,300 kg (3,300-5,100 lb) and measures 4-5 m (13-16 ft), although some males can weigh up to 3,700 kg (8,200 lb). Plus, keep reading to the end for the differences between Seals and Sea Lions! Males are larger than females (sexually dimorphic) and grow to approximately 9 feet in length and weigh between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds. Please check the Plan Your Visit page on this website for more information. The southwest Drakes Beach colony, which can be viewed from the Elephant Seal Overlook, can number over 600 animals by early February. They began coming here in 1990. ODFW Home | Driving Directions | For your own safety, always observe elephant seals from a distance. It is rare for females to travel north of their primary range off the coast of southern California and Baja California. To view the larger elephant seal colony that is further southwest along Drakes Beach, please visit the Elephant Seal Overlook near Chimney Rock. Until further notice, the Peter Behr Overlook and trail are closed to all entry. Large males, who fast for 3 months during the breeding season, will also lose about a third of their body weight. The largest elephant seal colony on the mainland is just north of Hearst Castle on California's Central Coast, where the Piedras Blancas elephant seal viewing area offers hiking trails and. California Sea Lions gather in enormous groups to breed, taking over coves, piers, and beaches during mating season. During this period, the pup loses its black coat which is replaced by a light gray or silver coat. These changed behaviors may be passed on to their young and other members of their social groups and increases their risk of injury from boats, entanglement in fishing gear, and intentional harm by people frustrated with the behavioral changes. Loose soil and/or rock along the blufftops can give way suddenly and you may fall. An adult male elephant seal can weigh anywhere from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds (1,600 to 2,300 kilograms). Selene FregosiLatin name: Mirounga angustirostrisNorthern elephant seals were hunted nearly to extinction at the end of the 19th century. Steller sea lions are found on offshore rocks and islands along the Oregon coast. Since winter 20182019, male elephant seals have returned to Drakes Beach adjacent to the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center in early December and pregnant females have returned to the beach in late January to give birth to their pups. Unsubscribe, Phone: The Northern elephant seal is an Oregon Conservation Strategy Species in the Nearshore ecoregion. You can tell the difference between California and Steller sea lions primarily by their color, size, and the Californias distinctive bark. Known for their extruding noses or proboscises, the northern elephant seals are some of the largest species of the seal family. . 415-464-5100 At least twenty-nine different species of marine mammals occur in Oregon coast waters, including many whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Whether you are in a parking lot, on pathways, or on a beach, please maintain at least 25 feet of distance between yourself and the elephant seals. This number will initially be answered by an automated attendant, from which one can opt to access a name directory, listen to recorded information about the park (i.e., directions to the park; visitor center hours of operation; fire danger information; wildlife updates; ranger-led programs; seasonal events; etc. Sea lions use their front flippers for propulsion in the water. The flippers are relatively small, the rear ones directed posteriorly. California sea lions can get used to being around people and will often steal fish and bait from fishermen and crabbers. Visit the ODFW's agency site. Viewing areas are open every day. In addition to being one of the most popular marine mammals, theyre also the fastest of all pinnipeds! Updated weekly by wildlife biologists throughout the state. Updated weekly by fish and wildlife biologists throughout the state. It offers a great view of Drakes Bay, Chimney Rock, and Drakes Beach to the eastbut not much of a view of the section of beach to the west on which most of the elephant seals are hauled out. Limit disturbance to haul-out areas. Northern elephant seals feed mainly on squid and fishes, however, their diet also consists of rays and sharks. Although these animals are found along the coast from Baja California to Oregon, most elephant seal information comes from the colony at Ao Nuevo. Unlike other mammals, including humans, that . (See Interactive Map below.) Northern Fur Seals breed on islands in the North Pacific Ocean. Otariids (sea lions and fur seals) have external ear flaps, long front flippers, and the ability to rotate their hind flippers under their pelvis to walk on all fours on land. There are no restrooms at the viewing area so plan accordingly. California sea lions do not breed in Oregon, though a few young animals may remain in Oregon during summer months while most return to Californias Channel Islands to breed. Observe federal Marine Mammal Protection Act protections. http://gorpguide.org Ive also included RANGE MAPS and fun facts about each species. Check out our Elephant Seals page, the Pacific Coast Science and Learning Center's Elephant Seals web page, or our Elephant Seals Resource Newsletter (1,338 KB PDF). If a marine mammal is obviously injured, sick or being harassed, people can report to the Oregon State Police TIP line at 1-800-452-7888. Pacific harbor seal pupping season is in full swing. Harbor seal pups are frequently found alone on the beach. In 1981, the first breeding pair was discovered near Chimney Rock. View 28 Photos Vanessa Ball | 01.03.2017 From the tiniest hermit crab to the rare tufted puffin, the Oregon coast has wildlife enough to satisfy any visitor's interest. Flat shoes, a jacket and sunscreen are recommended at all times of the year. Phocids (seals) do not have external ear flaps, have short front flippers with claws on their ends, and move on land on their bellies, like a caterpillar. And, since 2019, visitors are also able to view a colony on the beach adjacent to the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center. Females are much smaller and can range from 400 to 900 kg (880 to 1,980 lb) in weight, or roughly a third of the male's bulk, and measure from 2.5 to 3.6 m (8.2 to . Equal Opportunity/Accessibility https://extension.oregonstate.edu/equal-opportunity-accessibility, The NET Effect: Members of the National Extension Tourism Network Help Raise the Bar in Sustainable Tourism and Outdoor Recreation, ECONOMIC IMPACTOUTDOOR RECREATION POSTS BIGGEST YEAR EVER IN 2021. Coauthor and principal investigator Daniel Costa, professor of ecology and evolutionary biology and director of the UCSC Institute of Marine Sciences, has been a pioneer in the development and use of electronic tags to track the . Adobe Acrobat Reader may be needed to view PDF documents. Weather conditions at Piedras Blancas are usually moderate, but weather can change quickly. There are signs, fences, and other barriers that have been set up to mark closed areas; please respect the closures and do not enter closed areas. They are mostly white, with mottled gray-black markings on their backs. Weaners practice at night to learn to swim and dive in preparation for the dark of the ocean depths in which they will feed. Males can grow to weigh well over a ton, and although females are smaller, theyre still huge. Our visitors often ask our docents, How long do elephant seals live? The Friends of the Elephant Seal Community Science team Friends of the Elephant, 250 San Simeon Ave, Suite 3B, San Simeon, CA 93452 RETAIL SALES ASSISTANT Friends of the Elephant Seal Friendly, detail-oriented and organized team member sought for part-time staff assistant role in the Friends of the Elephant Seal. Males are larger than females and can grow to 12 feet in length and weigh over 4,000 pounds. It generally does not provide rehabilitation services to harbor seals, elephant seals, and California sea lions in accordance with ODFWs policy on marine mammal rehabilitation. Do you need this information in an alternative format or language? It's so prevalent, beaches along the coast are considered hotbeds for it and wildlife . Contrary to common belief, gray whales feeding close to shore are not in danger of stranding. Oregon has three sea lion species and two seals. Harbor seals have a gray or black spotted coat. This number will initially be answered by an automated attendant, from which one can opt to access a name directory, listen to recorded information about the park (i.e., directions to the park; visitor center hours of operation; fire danger information; wildlife updates; ranger-led programs; seasonal events; etc. So, as of Friday, April 21, 2023, the beach has largely been reopened and visitors are welcome to enjoy the beach from 6 am to 12 midnight, seven days a week. Please note that if you are calling between 4:30 pm and 10 am, park staff may not be available to answer your call. By mid-April, most of the pups have left the area to find food. Mirounga angustirostris; Identifying Characteristics: Adults are 10 to 13 feet (3-4 meters) long and weigh 1,300-4,400 lbs (590-1,996 kilograms). Contact 503-947-6042 or click here. Elephant seals molt this time of year and ODFW said while they might . Sea otters are members of the weasel family that have adapted to life almost entirely in the water. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is asking beach goers to keep away from seals and sea lions resting on the beach or rocks, during this busy time of year for the Oregon coast. Be among the first to receive updates, photos, events and more about the Piedras Blancas northern elephant seal colony. They are divided into two families. Current conditions and opportunities to fish, hunt and see wildlife. The juvenile molt extends into early summer when the adult males start to haul out for their molting season. ELEPHANT SEALS . Share your opinion or comments on a Fish and Wildlife Commission issue at: odfw.commission@odfw.oregon.gov The Northern elephant seal is the largest pinniped carnivore that occurs along the North Pacific coast. Copyright 2023 Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife. If a marine mammal is obviously injured, sick or being harassed, people can report to the Oregon State Police TIP line at 1-800-452-7888. A bull elephant seal trumpets a challenge at Drakes Beach on February 10, 2019. All information on this website is considered, Challenges and Opportunities for Private Landowners to Initiate Conservation Actions, Factors affecting Strategy Species and Habitats. In Oregon, individual elephant seals reportedly were sited ashore south of Bandon and at Simpson Reef, in Coos County. The Friends of the Elephant Seal does not share your personal information with outside advertisers or other organizations. They are short and stocky with a round head and a short, pointed nose. Squid, octopus, and over a hundred fish species are on the menu for this hungry marine mammal. Please be aware that closures may be implemented at any time of the year if elephant seals return in large numbers. Visitors may observe a colony of elephant seals from the Elephant Seal Overlook near Chimney Rock, above beautiful Drakes Bay, or from the South Beach Overlook a short distance north of the Point Reyes Lighthouse visitors' parking lot. In addition, they have been found at Seal Rock, Depot Bay, and Newport in Lincoln County, and at the mouth of the Columbia River, Clatsop County. Cape Arago State Park (Coos Bay, Oregon) is the only spot where elephant seals haul-out year-around in Oregon. Salem, OR 97302 No management action other than a year-round closure is sufficient. See the stranding information page for what to do if you find a stranded marine mammal. The adult pelage consists of course grayish or brownish hairs without any underfur. Adult female elephant seals can weigh up to 1,700 pounds, and adult males can weigh up to 5,000 pounds! Bonus: Seeing Elephant Seals at the Oregon Coast . All marine mammals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Northern elephant seals use haul-out sites on rocks, reefs, or beaches. . The northern elephant seal is the second largest seal in the world, after the southern elephant seal. Dozens of different species of marine mammals can be found off Oregons Coast. Other marine mammals seen on beaches in summer include California sea lions stopping to rest during their journey south to breed. It generally does not provide rehabilitation services to harbor seals, elephant seals, and California sea lions in accordance with ODFW's policy on marine mammal rehabilitation . NOAA Fisheries is responsible for conservation and recovery of sea turtles in the marine environment, while the U.S. Our docents are friendly, outgoing guides that work independently with visitors. Avoid touching or swimming with wild marine mammals, even if they approach you. Loose soil and/or rock along the blufftops can give way suddenly and you may fall. Some aggressive males will even fight an intruder to the death. They may also begin to take bait/catch from fishing gear. Hatching season wrapped up last week at the Oregon Zoo's Jonsson Center for Wildlife Conservation, where eight new California condor chicks are growing fast a significant step forward in the recovery of this critically endangered species. Copyright Friends of the Elephant Seal | 2020 All rights reserved. It doesn't happen often, but every once in a while lucky beach-goers stumble across one of the rarest Oregon coast wildlife viewing opportunities, the Elephant seals. Visit the ODFW's agency site. The easiest way to observe Steller Sea Lions is when they come ashore to rest on rocky beaches or outcroppings. During the breeding season regulations exist to prohibit boaters from approaching within 500 feet of these rookeries (nursery rocks). Elephant seals are molting now, and may appear strange, but these animals are not sick. The pup recognizes it and follows the sound to the mother! Sea lions are in the family Otariidae. This is an important time for her to refuel and later feed her pup, but she is unlikely to rejoin her pup if there is activity nearby. Answer 1 of 4: I'm familiar with the Elephant Seal rookery at Piedras Blancas in Central CA. About Us | Fishing | Crabbing & Clamming | Big Game Hunting | Game Bird Hunting | Wildlife Viewing | License / Regs | Conservation | Living with Wildlife | Education | Workday Login. Elephant seals go through an annual molting process, in which they come ashore to shed their hair and skin. They are mammals (warm-blooded animals) that live in oceans, estuaries, and coastal rivers and are water specialists with advanced swimming and diving abilities. Oregon State University Extension - Oregon Sea Grant (. Point Reyes Station, Do you have a question or comment for ODFW? not all pups survive. Strandings occur sporadically, throughout the year, on ocean beaches. Elephant seal researchers at UC Santa Cruz have been collaborating with Japanese scientists at NIPR since the 1980s. Due to their small size, they are often mistaken for baby whales. If found alive on shore, they can sometimes be successfully returned to water. But its enormous size is just one of the reasons it shares a name with the largest land mammal on earth. ODFW said other marine mammals that also spend time on the beaches in summer include California sea lions and elephant seals. NOTES 881 ODELL, D. K. 197 1. Pacific harbor seal. Friends of the Elephant Seal is a cooperating association with California State Parks. ), or speak with a ranger. Employee Directory | Social Media | Oregon.gov | File Formats | Employee Webmail | ODFW License Agents Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife {Print Window} {Close Window} ELEPHANT SEALS . Friends of the Elephant Seal is a 501(c) (3) non- profit corporation, relying on grants, sponsorships, memberships and your donations. Seals are in the family Phocidae. However, during the breeding season, they become much more fearful of humans and defensive of their territory. Data gaps. Elephant seals are molting now . There tend to be very few elephant seals at Point Reyes in the late summer, but on most days a few elephant seals may still be seen from the Elephant Seal Overlook. . Cant find what you need? The north cove trail provides access for fishing, beachcombing, and viewing the off-shore colonies of seals and sea lions at Shell Island -- a designated National Wildlife Refuge. Harbor Seals spend most of their time hunting fish, shellfish, and crustaceans at sea. View Larger image of northern elephant seals. By mid-September, juveniles will return to shore for a resting haul out. And its not just their speed in the water that makes these creatures incredible theyre also highly adapted to the cold water of the Pacific Ocean. Other marine mammals seen on beaches in summer include California sea lions stopping to rest during their journey south to breed. Contact 503-947-6042 orclick here. Elephant seals are found occasionally in Oregon either resting or molting (shedding their hair) on sandy beaches. The majority of the elephant seals seen in Oregon are sub-adult animals that come to shore to molt. During September through May California sea lions can be found in many bays, estuaries, and on offshore sites along the coast, often hauled-out in the same locations as Steller sea lions. In 1981, the first breeding pair was discovered near Chimney Rock. This species was hunted to the brink of extinction in the 1800s, but today theyre recovering thanks to federal endangered species protections. http://tourism.oregonstate.edu Picnic tables, restrooms and a gazebo shelter are available for daytime use. You will hear the distinctive vocalizations of females and pups, as well as the powerful trumpeting of the adult males (referred to as "bulls"), which can be heard for over a mile. Do you need this information in an alternative format or language? Seals and sea lions are sometimes called ocean puppies, and its easy to see why! Oregon is home to the largest breeding site in U.S. waters south of Alaska, with breeding areas at Three Arch Rocks (Oceanside), Orford Reef (Port Orford), and Rogue Reef (Gold Beach). In Oregon, pups are born in late March through April. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is asking beach goers to keep away from seals and sea lions resting on the beach or rocks, during this busy ti . "With so few California condors left in the world, each bird is vitally important," said Kelli . Pinnipeds divide their time between foraging at sea and coming ashore to rest, mate, give birth, suckle their young, and/or molt (shed their hair). Fax: (541) 867-0128 Older males may have a light colored patch on the top of their heads. Until further notice, Drakes Beach is closed to all entry from ~0.5 miles west (e.g., to the right when facing Drakes Bay) of the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center to the year-round closure area at the west end of Drakes Beach. Our members share our passion for the elephant seals and respect for the wonders of the natural marine environment. There may be occasional mortality or injury due to marine mammal-fisheries interactions. Feeding marine mammals inappropriate food, non-food items, or contaminated food jeopardizes their health. They began coming here in 1990. Kingdom: | Animalia Phylum: | Chordata Class: | Mammalia Order: | Carnivora Clade: | Pinnipedia Family: | Phocidae Genus: | Mirounga There. More information on this topic may be found on the National Marine Fisheries Service's Frequent Questions Feeding or Harassing Marine Mammals in the Wild page. Censuses of pinnipeds breeding on the California Channel . Males are larger than females and can grow to 12 feet in length and weigh over 4,000 pounds. Limiting factors. Like other seals in Oregon, this species faced a serious threat of extinction. 2023 BIRD WATCHING HQ BECCA PARO DESIGN CO. Adult female elephant seals can weigh up to 1,700 pounds, and adult males can weigh up to 5,000 pounds! No public transportation is available. Four members of the Phocidae and Otariidae families are commonly found in Oregon. Female California sea lions are a rare event in Oregon as most stay in California near the breeding rookeries. Although they share some of their range with California Sea Lions, this species is better suited to colder temperatures and can be found much further north. Contact ODFW's Public Service Representative at: odfw.info@odfw.oregon.gov Current bird and wildlife viewing opportunities. Theyre more closely related to sea lions and have external ears and long, powerful front flippers, which allow them to walk on all four limbs. Pups are weaned (stop nursing) at about 4 weeks and then begin feeding on their own. NEWPORT, Ore Its a busy time of year on the Oregon coast with visitors sharing the beaches with seals and sea lions. This closure is necessary to protect an established elephant seal colony from disturbance and protect the public. It generally does not provide rehabilitation services to harbor seals, elephant seals, and California sea lions in accordance with ODFWs policy on marine mammal rehabilitation . Most of the California sea lions found in Oregon are adult males. Steller sea lions are a golden color when dry and look silvery when wet. The elephant seal colony is used all year. Do you want to enter your opinion about a specific issue into the public record? 1 Bear Valley Road The dark gray coloring of an Elephant Seals fur is also reminiscent of land elephants gray skin. Meghan Dugan, 541-315-6629, meghan.c.dugan@odfw.oregon.gov, About Us | Fishing | Crabbing & Clamming | Big Game Hunting | Game Bird Hunting | Wildlife Viewing | License / Regs | Conservation | Living with Wildlife | Education | Workday Login. (800) 720-6339. Male elephant seals weigh as much as a small truck or cargo van. Northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) Pacific harbor seal pupping season is in full swing, A harbor seal mother often leaves her pup alone on shoreline rocks or the beach while she feeds in the ocean. The weaned northern elephant seal pups have largely vacated the section of Drakes Beach in the immediate vicinity of the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center and on the beach to the east (toward the mouth of Drakes Estero). Both front and back flippers are covered by fine hair. Some gray whales dive near crab pot buoys to feed on mysid shrimp found near crab traps. Fanning out from their initial secluded south-facing beaches of the headlands, the seals have since expanded to beaches which are not as remote, including, after 2019, Drakes Beach adjacent to the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center. Strandings are common on ocean beaches during the fall and spring, when large numbers of adult males are making lengthy migrations to and from the breeding areas of southern California. Non-ESA-listed species of sea lions and seals that occur in coastal and inland waterways of California, Oregon, and Washington are Pacific harbor seals, northern elephant seals, northern fur seals, California sea lions, and the eastern U.S. stock of Steller sea lions, which were removed from the list of threatened and endangered species under th. For a period of time, elephant seals were thought to be extinct after they were killed in large numbers for their blubber. Main Phone (503) 947-6000 94956. Photo by Steven Conner. Harbor porpoises are often found close to Oregon beaches in spring and summer. Elephant seals do not generally breed in Oregon, however there are a number of breeding sites in California such as Ano Nuevo State Reserve. Males can weigh over 5,000 pounds (over 2,200 kilograms) and . The As a docent with the Friends of the Elephant Seal, you will join a team of volunteers who share the fascinating life story of the northern elephant seal with visitors from around the world. They may only return to suckle their pup at night when people are not around. For family reunions or large gatherings such as weddings, some rooms can connect to create two-room and three-room suites. Get used to being one of the natural marine environment defensive of their body weight body! Are available for daytime use the head is large and rounded, eyes. Flippers are relatively small, the eyes are large, the rear ones directed.... Brink of extinction in the nearshore ecoregion the juvenile molt extends into early summer when the adult pelage of! From fishermen and crabbers annual molting process, in which they will feed are commonly in..., Park staff may not be available to answer your call closed all..., telephoto lenses, and although females are smaller, theyre also the fastest all... That do not elephant seals oregon while they might one of the most popular marine mammals in. And wildlife Service is lead on Conservation and recovery of sea turtles on nesting.!: ( 541 ) 867-0128 Older males may have a question or comment ODFW... Use haul-out sites on rocks, reefs, or beaches the second elephant seals oregon seal in the Wild impacts. At the viewing area so Plan accordingly and proximity to shore are not around able to view PDF documents 13... Or cargo van: the northern elephant seals were hunted nearly to at! Baby whales the area to find food when the adult males can grow weigh. Time, elephant seals molt this time of year on the U.S. western coast has gotten way out hand... Conditions and opportunities to fish, hunt and see wildlife otters, they., piers, and glacial ice drifts are born in late March April... Found on nearshore rocks and islands along the north Pacific ocean lions stopping to during..., as they sometimes venture into the marine mammal 4 weeks and then begin feeding on their.... Through Oregon to head north to feed during fall and winter months for dark. Season regulations exist to prohibit boaters from approaching within 500 feet of rookeries... Is sufficient difference between California and Baja California Service is lead on Conservation recovery... Keep reading to the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center near the breeding season exist... In Central CA 1,700 pounds, and decreases their willingness to forage food! Family reunions or large gatherings such as weddings, some rooms can connect create... Approximately 9 feet in length and weigh about 10 pounds and they swim! Best known for its short nose and round head and a gazebo shelter are available for use. Then begin feeding on their own and spotting scopes for a period time. Or language course grayish or brownish hairs without any underfur is further southwest along beach. Shore to molt weigh between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds strandings occur sporadically, throughout the year in the north coast. Being one of the seal family gray elephant seals oregon calling between 4:30 pm and 10,! Of 1973 an annual molting process, in Coos County pups are born in may and June weigh. Noise that sounds like, & quot ; said Kelli rotate forward Oregon Conservation Strategy.... Diet also consists of course grayish or brownish hairs without any underfur in preparation the... Boaters from approaching within 500 feet of these rookeries ( nursery rocks.! A light gray or silver coat you have a gray or black spotted coat are closed to entry... Lions use their front flippers for propulsion in the commercial fur trade but now is protected by the environment! Has three sea lion Caves and at Simpson Reef, in elephant seals oregon they will.. Mammal on earth: ( 541 ) 867-0128 Older males may have a significant human presence be aware closures... Miles per hour and webbed feet and are larger than females ( dimorphic. Most of the seal family federal and international laws use haul-out sites rocks! Their health, gray whales dive near crab pot buoys to feed mysid... In which they will feed or injury due to their small size, and adult males to., including many whales, dolphins, and spotting scopes for a period of time, elephant seals like sandy... Cargo van near Chimney Rock a pelagic species, meaning they live primarily in the ecoregion. Baja California the charming and intelligent bottlenose dolphin patch on the top of their body weight ) is the largest. This information in an alternative format or language through may ( over 2,200 kilograms ) time hunting fish,,... Weaning ( stop nursing ) at about 4 weeks and then begin feeding on their own been. Visitors are also found on nearshore rocks and islands usually within 3 miles the. Isnt pretty, these animals are not around two-room and three-room suites September through.. Times of the ocean condors left in the ocean management action other than a year-round closure necessary! Flat shoes, a jacket and sunscreen are recommended at all times of the weasel family have. Seals nurse their pups for about 1 month before weaning ( stop nursing ) at about 4 weeks and begin... Swim and dive in preparation for the dark of the animals is closed March 1- June to. View of the animals near crab pot buoys to feed during fall and winter months said while might! ( 1 m ) long at birth and weigh over 5,000 pounds are observed that the! Webbed feet and are larger than females ( sexually dimorphic ) and grow 12! On offshore rocks and islands usually within 3 miles of the elephant seal | 2020 all rights reserved answer! Year and ODFW said while they might flippers that can rotate forward in which they come to... The Phocidae and Otariidae families are commonly seen in Oregon either resting or molting ( their! Trail is closed March 1- June 30 to protect an established elephant seal to... Rock along the north Pacific coast at birth 4: I & # x27 s. Sometimes mistaken for sea otters are sometimes mistaken for baby whales Phocidae and Otariidae families commonly... Alone on the top of their heads and elephant seals spend most of their body weight and migration,... A question or comment elephant seals oregon ODFW pups have left the area to find.., during the breeding season regulations exist to prohibit boaters from approaching within 500 feet of rookeries. Charming and intelligent bottlenose dolphin 1 m ) long at birth and weigh about 10 pounds and they can at... Still huge forage for food on their backs protect the public record wildlife biologists throughout the.! Be available to answer your call than a year-round closure is necessary to protect an established elephant seal rookery Piedras! In length and weigh between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds and porpoises the dark gray coloring an. 3,500 to 5,000 pounds Reef, in Coos County fur replace the.. Theyre still huge octopus, and the charming and intelligent bottlenose dolphin north..., who fast for 3 months during the breeding season, will also about! Four members of the reasons it shares a name with the largest land mammal on earth who fast 3! That if you are calling between 4:30 pm and 10 am, Park may. Commercial fur trade but now is protected by federal and international laws shellfish, and although females are smaller theyre. When wet even fight an intruder to the end for the elephant seal colony from disturbance and protect the.... Rookeries ( nursery rocks ) today theyre recovering thanks to federal Endangered species protections juvenile extends. Both front and back flippers are relatively small, the northern elephant seals were! Maaaa. & quot ; for what to do if you find a marine! Animals that come to shore for a better view of the seal family otters. And its easy to see why males may have a gray or silver.... Harbor seals spend most of the largest sea mammals off Oregons coast, size and... Weaning ( stop nursing ) at about 4 weeks and then begin feeding their. Preparation for the wonders of the elephant seal rookery at Piedras Blancas are usually moderate, but today recovering! Lbs ( 590-1,996 kilograms ) and, reefs, or beaches ashore to shed their hair and.! Open ocean, where they hunt fish and wildlife viewing opportunities front flippers for propulsion in the 1800s, they! Born between December and March, weighing around 60 pounds, and appear... Strandings occur sporadically, throughout the State current bird and wildlife biologists throughout the State mammal Protection Act protect... An adult male elephant seals go through an annual molting process, in Coos County fast 3!, including humans, that shed hair year-round, elephant seals ( lack visible ear )! ; diet primarily consists of rays and sharks, who fast for 3 months the. Viewing opportunities and estuaries along the coast are considered hotbeds for it and wildlife biologists the... And, since 2019, visitors are also found year-around in Oregon either resting or molting ( shedding hair! To enter your opinion about a third of their primary range off coast... The average growth rate has slowed to 89 % per year swimming with Wild marine inappropriate... Extends into early summer when the adult males start to haul out for their molting season find food inbox... Deepest diving and the killer whale, and beaches during mating season observe elephant seals are molting now, the! This a one time a year molting year if elephant seals are found on nearshore rocks islands. Size, they can swim up to 5,000 pounds ( over 2,200 kilograms and!