They usually shed it before they’re even born 😮
As harbor seal pup season kicks into high gear, Marine Mammals of Maine (MMM) is no stranger to a spike in rescue calls. So when a recent alert came in about a lone pup found on Scarborough Beach in Maine, the team sprang into action—only to be taken aback by an unusual sight.
Unlike the typical brown or gray coats of most newborn harbor seals, this pup sported a rare white, fluffy fur coat.
“This little one still had his lanugo—a soft, white fur normally shed before birth—which may indicate he was born prematurely,” MMM shared on Facebook. Adding to the concern, the pup appeared to be only about a day old. While it’s normal during pupping season to see young seals resting ashore while waiting for their mothers, this pup showed no signs of being under maternal care. His behavior around humans was also troubling.
“Although vocalizing, swimming, and beach-napping are normal behaviors for seal pups still reliant on their mothers, several aspects of his condition and repeated human interaction suggested he wouldn’t survive without help,” MMM explained. After scanning the area one last time for the pup’s mother, the team made the decision to bring him in for rehabilitation.
Caring for such a young pup—especially one born with lanugo—can be challenging, but MMM remains optimistic.
“As a pup still dependent on care, he’ll stay with us for the next few months, starting on formula feedings until he’s around 3 to 4 weeks old. After that, he’ll begin learning how to eat fish,” MMM reported.
Once at the facility, the young seal began his recovery journey immediately. His caretakers are hopeful he’ll grow stronger each day and eventually be ready to return to his ocean home. In the meantime, they’re ensuring he receives the nurturing and support he needs to thrive.
“He’s doing really well and loves suckling on his pool mate—another dependent pup,” MMM’s Lynda Ada Doughty told The Dodo. “He’s also enjoying his swim sessions!”