Elephant Seal Molting on Sandy Beach

Elephant Seal Molting on Sandy Beach

Saturday, January 24th, 2026 at 11:44:06 PM · 2026/Drakes Beach Elephant Seal Pups

A large elephant seal lies on sandy beach during its molting period, displaying a striking pattern of light and dark coloration across its body. The seal's skin shows the characteristic patchy appearance of molting, with lighter tan areas contrasting against darker sections. The animal rests on a wide, flat beach with small stones and debris scattered across the sand. The overcast sky and muted colors create a calm, naturalistic coastal atmosphere typical of Point Reyes National Seashore.

AI Generated Title and Caption: The title, caption, description, and tags for this photo were generated by claude-sonnet-4-5 and may be inaccurate, often hilariously so. If you'd like me to adjust anything, just reach out.