Elephant seal pups triple weight during intense nursing period

Elephant seals are born in October and November. For three to four intense weeks, the mother nurses her pup, during which time the newborn triples its weight—growing from about 40 kg at birth to an impressive 120–130 kg by weaning. 🦭

By mid-November, the beaches transform into bustling weaning nurseries. At this stage, the pups are endlessly social and brimming with curiosity—approaching, sniffing, and interacting with anything (or anyone) in their path. Moments like these capture the wild, playful spirit of South Georgia’s shores.

National Geographic