Sat April 29

April 21, 2018 – Another successful seal cruise

Once again, the Plum Island, Great Gull Island, and Little Gull Island were loaded with seals. We headed towards Plum Island and found that the rocks along the southern side from Fort Terry to East Point were covered with Atlantic harbor seals of all ages. While there we learned of the history and natural history of Fort Henry and the efforts to preserve Plum Island from development. East we went, past Old Silas and Middle Shoal Rocks to Great Gull Island. The seals were sparser on Great Gull but we did see a snowy owl. Little Gull Island was once again home to about 60 gray seals in the two typical sandy areas. While we didn’t observe the nearly 360 gray seals seen on our 3/18 trip, the sight of the grey seals from young of the year to mature adults was spectacular as always.  Photos can be seen (and purchased) at  https://drartiek-cresli.smugmug.com/Pinnipeds/CRESLIVikingFleet-SealCruise-2018-04-21/