Seal pup takes a nap on a Port Alden harbor street, drawing a crowd of onlookers

Commuters heading for the morning ferries in Port Alden had an unusual obstacle on Thursday: a young grey seal, stretched out on the cobblestones of Quay Street and apparently fast asleep. The pup spent around three hours resting near the ferry terminal before shuffling back to the harbor edge and slipping into the water.

Word spread quickly, and by mid-morning several dozen people had gathered to watch from behind a line of traffic cones set up by harbor staff.

Rescuers on the scene

Volunteers from the Coastal Region marine animal rescue arrived within half an hour to check on the animal. They said the pup appeared healthy and well fed, and was most likely resting after a long swim.

Seals often come ashore to rest, and that is completely normal. The best thing people can do is stay back, keep dogs on a lead and let the animal decide when to leave.

Johanna Krause, coordinator at the marine animal rescue

The volunteers estimated the pup was a few months old. Young seals sometimes explore busy harbors in the autumn as they learn to feed on their own.

A short traffic diversion

The harbor authority closed one lane of Quay Street and diverted delivery vans around the area. Ferry services were not affected.

“I have worked here for twenty years and never had to stop a lorry for a seal,” said harbor attendant Tomas Berg. “Most drivers were happy to wait and take a photo.”

What to do if you see a seal

The rescue service says seals on land should be watched from at least 50 meters away. Approaching too close can cause stress and, in mothers with young, may lead to a pup being abandoned. Seals can also bite if they feel threatened.

Anyone who sees a seal that looks injured, thin or tangled in fishing line is asked to call the rescue hotline rather than trying to help it themselves.

By lunchtime, the pup had gone. A few onlookers stayed by the railings, scanning the water, and one child left a drawing of the seal taped to a lamppost.