Letter to Editor: Local Resident Thanks Mayor Filner for Installing Seal Cam in La Jolla

Mayor Filner,

Thank you so much for approving the installation of the seal cam at Children’s Pool Beach in La Jolla! What an incredible educational opportunity for people from all over the world to see harbor seals in a natural, yet urban environment.

Although I am grateful that you have lengthened rope line to 152 feet, correcting the error from last season, some people, often encouraged by the professional harassers and their friends, do not adhere to the guideline viewing requirements and cross the rope, disturbing many of the pregnant female seals from critical resting.

In past years of the pupping season, the first births took place at the end of January. If people occupy the beach close to the waterline, the seals will not be able to haul out. As a result there will not be a place to deliver and nurture their pups, which can cause infant mortality rates to rise. If the distance requirements are enforced, we will have a pupping season that will amaze viewers far and wide!

Thank you for caring and taking action to protect the seals. Your noble actions are appreciated by so many of us who love the seals!

Deborah Saracini

Del Mar, CA