Harrison river Seals

[murraybrown]

Yesterday afternoon just downstream from the CPR trestle on the Harrison River were at least 4 Harbour Seals and possibly more.
In itself this is nothing particularly unusual, but these animals were behaving in a way that I haven't seen before.
They seemed to be charging around just under the surface as if they were feeding on something barely below the water's surface.
I've watched them catching salmon many times but this was different.
I thought that it might be some kind of mating ritual but I never saw the animals make contact.
To my knowledge there are no fish in the river at this time that would be large enough attract animals of this size.
Anybody have any thoughts?
Murray

[Gord]

Murray, interesting observation! Ive never seen them do that either but my first guess would also be that they are feeding on something. But what could they be eating is the question. Anything in good numbers would probably be migrating sockeye juveniles and coho juveniles (not sure if Harrison Chinook too) but I too cant see a seal going after something so small.

Seals are known for playfulness. Maybe just a game?

[murraybrown]

Yeah Gord, at first I thought they were interacting in some way, but as I watched it seemed they were less interested in each other and more interested in this behavior.
I agree, there are many fry in the river just now, particularly Chum. As we fished the upper river last week there were just clouds of Chum fry in the shallows.
Typically, when fry are being chased by trout, they "shower" into the air to avoid being eaten. I watched for that but saw no sign of it.
So I'm doubtful that was what they were after.
In any event, I appreciate your thoughts. If you have any others please pass them on.
Thanks,
Murray