I’ve just returned from a weekend break in Norfolk, the highlight of which was a trip out to see the seals. I thought I would be squinting to catch sight of a few seals in the distance but was surprised and overwhelmed at the number and proximity of these calm and beautiful animals.
Our guide explained that the seals were quite curious of humans and happy to be watched and filmed. However, they preferred the motorised boats rather than canoes and kayaks, as they were reassured by the vibration of the engines in the water rather than being taken unaware by the silence of the boats that silently crept up on them.
It seems that its their whiskers that alert them to the vibrations. Unlike our facial hair, their whiskers or vibrissae are highly advanced tactile organs that relay the most minute vibrations and pressures to the seals’ nervous system. They have typically thirty or forty on each side of their snout arranged in neat symmetrical rows.
The whiskers allow seals to detect vibrations in the water as subtle as a few nanometres – undetectable by humans. This sensitivity is essential for an animal who hunts in often deep murky waters where vision is limited. Seals can track the wakes left behind by swimming fish minutes after the fish have passed by and sense minute disturbances in water flow, allowing them to ‘see’ with touch what their eyes cannot. Laboratory experiments have shown that blindfolded seals, deprived of sight and hearing, can still successfully detect and follow the wake trails left by objects or fish. In addition to foraging, whiskers may also help seals avoid predators and navigate complex underwater environments.
There is growing evidence that whiskers may play a part in social communication: during close encounters, whiskers are brought forward – touching or brushing against another seal, possibly sending messages about mood, identity or intent. These interactions may help reinforce bonds or resolve disputes.
Jesus is not only ‘the cat’s whiskers’ but also the seal’s whiskers! Picking up on the subtle vibrations and changes in our lives, situations, and moods. Even protecting and providing for us when it’s too dark and murky for us to navigate our way. He comes close, communicating, making contact, solidifying relationships and bringing us close to God and Himself.