A seal pup was recently spotted floating on an unused boogie board near Stratton Island, Maine, according to photos shared by Keeper Charters with Maine’s Total Coverage. The sighting occurred in the Saco Bay area, where customers of the Saco-based fishing tour company observed the pup navigating the water near a known harbor seal colony.
Where was the seal pup spotted?
The sighting took place in the waters near Stratton Island, located off the coast of Old Orchard Beach. According to a Facebook post from Keeper Charters, the animal was seen utilizing a discarded boogie board as a float.
The location is significant because Stratton Island is home to a harbor seal colony. This proximity explains why seal activity is frequent in the Saco Bay area, though the use of human debris by a pup is a notable observation reported by the tour company.
Harbor seals often use floating objects or kelp to rest between dives, helping them conserve energy while staying near the surface.
How did the sighting come to light?
Customers on a tour with Keeper Charters reported seeing the pup floating near the island. Marco Lamothe, who runs the Saco-based fishing tour company, shared the images with Maine’s Total Coverage to document the event.
Keeper Charters operates in the Saco Bay area, providing fishing tours for groups of up to six people. The company’s social media presence allowed the images of the pup “hanging out in style,” as described in their post, to reach a wider audience.
What is the connection to Stratton Island?
The presence of the pup is directly linked to the local ecosystem. Because Stratton Island contains a harbor seal colony, the surrounding waters are a natural habitat for these animals.
While the boogie board provided an unusual platform for the pup, the sighting highlights the intersection of local wildlife habitats and human activity in the Old Orchard Beach region. The pup’s presence near the colony suggests it was likely foraging or resting within its natural range.
When observing marine life like seals in Maine, maintain a respectful distance. Using binoculars allows for close observation without disturbing the animal’s natural behavior or causing it stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is Keeper Charters located?
The company is located in Saco, Maine, and operates fishing tours in the Saco Bay area. - What kind of seals live near Old Orchard Beach?
The area near Stratton Island is known to host a harbor seal colony. - How many people can join a Keeper Charters tour?
The company takes up to six people at a time for their fishing tours.
Have you spotted unique wildlife in Maine? Share your stories in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more local updates.