When data collection is cancelled because of the pandemic, one must get creative to stay connected to their study species. For me, this means free-diving in Monterey Bay. Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) are often found in the kelp forests, using different strategies for foraging and hunting. One strategy is called the sit-and-wait, where seals can control their buoyancy to stay at different depths and inconspicuously wait for their prey to swim by. Harbor seals are very good at this, I on the other hand, still need to work on breath control and buoyancy.

[Photo and caption by Karli Chudeau]