Seals are marine mammals often observed near coastlines. While they appear docile, people frequently wonder if these animals are dangerous. Seals are not typically aggressive towards humans, but they are wild animals that necessitate respect and caution. Understanding their natural behaviors and potential risks is important for safe coexistence.
Understanding General Seal Behavior
Seals are wild animals, driven by natural instincts for survival. They forage for food in the water and rest on land, a behavior known as “hauling out.” Seals are generally curious and may observe humans from a distance, but they prefer to avoid direct confrontation.
Despite their playful appearance, seals possess powerful bodies and strong jaws with sharp teeth. These attributes are adapted for hunting prey, such as fish and crustaceans, not for attacking humans. While agile in water, they are less so on land, becoming more defensive if threatened.
When Seals Can Be Dangerous
While fatalities are rare, seals can pose a threat in specific situations. Aggression is most common in self-defense, particularly if they feel cornered, threatened, or are protecting their young. During breeding seasons, elevated hormone levels can also make seals more irritable.
If provoked, a seal may bite, and these bites can lead to serious infections. A significant risk is “seal finger,” also known as “sealer’s finger” or “spekkfinger.” This painful bacterial infection of the fingers and hand, often caused by Mycoplasma species, can enter through a bite or even a small cut from handling seal pelts or meat. Untreated, seal finger can result in severe pain, swelling, joint inflammation, and potentially permanent disability or amputation. Prompt medical attention and specific antibiotics, such as tetracycline, are necessary for any seal bite.
Seals can also carry zoonotic diseases, transmissible from animals to humans. While severe human illness or death from casual contact is rare, risks increase with bites or direct exposure to bodily fluids. Beyond Mycoplasma, other potential zoonoses include Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, which can cause skin infections, and Leptospirosis, although human cases definitively linked to marine mammal contact are uncommon. Additionally, a large or startled seal could accidentally injure a person if approached too closely, especially if it attempts to move quickly.
How to Interact Safely with Seals
Maintaining a respectful distance is important for safe interactions with seals. It is recommended to stay at least 50 yards (about 150 feet) away from seals on land and in the water. This distance allows them to rest and behave naturally without feeling disturbed or threatened. Approaching too closely can stress seals, potentially leading them to flee or act defensively.
Avoid feeding seals or attempting to approach them for photos or interaction. Feeding can habituate seals to humans, leading to aggressive behaviors as they associate people with food. Instead, observe seals from afar, using binoculars or telephoto lenses for a closer view. Respect their space by not blocking their path to the water or disturbing them while resting. If a seal appears distressed, injured, or in an unusual location, contact local wildlife authorities or a marine mammal stranding network.