Seal behavior

Just curious....some friends and I were at the coast at a very imfamous spot on the SMC. While contemplating the launch we observed many stellar seals right on shore, about a dozen, and then while looking out at the area generally fished I noticed a seal jumping out of the water. At first the jumps were in a small area and then the seal began moving south very fast and jumping out of the water much like a dolphin travelling....while I did not see anything chasing it, the activity of this seal seemed odd. I have been surfing, diving and fishing around here for more than twenty years I've never seen this before...gulp...any thoughts anyone on why a seal might exert so much energy ??? Except to get away from something.

I've experienced this once before at HMB. Turns out it was feeding on a school of baitfish.

Possibly training a younger seal how to chase fish or escape predators.  Plus they do like to have fun, it is proven they just like to play around like we do.

Escaping the jaws of death, it is that time of year.   

Sounds like pretty normal seal behavior. Chasing baitfish or just having fun. Had a big one come close on Sunday. Gave me the eye. I got my paddle ready and then it went from  a floating start to flipping completely out of the water with a big splash as if saying, see ya sucker. Then again it's best not to over analyze seal behavior

So ... did you launch?

-Allen

We launched.....elsewhere to be on the safe side....It was probably normal behavior...but given the location and its history.

I have been surfing, diving and fishing around here for more than twenty years I've never seen this before...gulp...

Your years on the water told you that what you were seeing was not normal.  Trust that animal remnant in your brain.  Glad you listened to it