Mar del Plata elephant seal birth marks first occurrence in decades

A southern elephant seal pup, nicknamed Alfredito or Saturnino, has been born on the beaches of Mar del Plata, Argentina, marking the first such birth in the locality in over 30 years. The calf and its mother, Perla, are currently located in the La Perla area near the Saturnino Unzué Institute.

Specialists from the National University of Mar del Plata, CONICET, and municipal authorities are conducting continuous monitoring. Experts report that the lactation process is progressing normally and the calf is showing healthy weight gain, evidenced by the loss of neck definition. The pup has successfully passed the critical first 72-hour window, which typically sees high mortality rates.

Local authorities and civil defense have established a protection perimeter to prevent disturbances from tourists, pets, or vehicles. Officials emphasize that maintaining a safe distance is vital to avoid stressing the animals and ensuring the successful development of the mother-calf bond before the weaning period.