Tourists and residents flocked to San Francisco’s Aquatic Park Thursday when a baby elephant seal decided to molt on a popular beach.
Marine Experts say the seal is a yearling between one and two years old.
Experts say the animals is in great shape and has been actively foraging the area.
Molting is when elephant seals lose a layer of its coat and it’s normal for these marine mammals to come ashore to molt.
Once the molting is complete, which could take anywhere between several hours to several days, it should return to the water and resume foraging.
A small barrier has been set up to protect the marine mammal.
Onlookers are asked to respect the space, keep their voices down and allow the animal to rest while ashore.
Officials ask you call (415) 289-732 if you see anyone attempting to disturb the animal.
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