Seals, with their large eyes and seemingly docile demeanor, often evoke a sense of curiosity and a desire for interaction in humans. While these marine mammals may appear charming or even friendly, their true nature is wild and driven by instincts for survival, not human companionship. Understanding the inherent behaviors of seals and the potential consequences of close contact is important for both human safety and the well-being of these animals.
Natural Behavior of Seals
Seals are wild predators adapted to marine environments, hunting in water and resting on land or ice. Behaviors humans interpret as invitations for interaction are driven by natural instincts. For instance, seals “haul out” onto land to rest, molt, give birth, or warm themselves. While they may gather in groups, these are often solitary activities.
Curiosity is common in seals; they may approach boats, swimmers, or divers. However, this curiosity does not equate to friendliness or a desire for physical contact. Seals communicate through vocalizations like barks, grunts, moans, and whistles, serving purposes such as maintaining social bonds, warning of threats, or attracting mates. They also use body language, like slapping the water with their flippers, to signal aggression or distress.
Risks of Interaction
Direct human interaction with seals carries considerable risks for both people and the seals themselves. Seals possess powerful jaws and sharp teeth, capable of inflicting severe bites if they feel threatened. Even a seemingly minor bite can transmit harmful bacteria, leading to serious infections. One specific and painful condition associated with seal contact is “seal finger,” a bacterial infection caused by Mycoplasma species that can result in swelling, pain, and even permanent disability if untreated. Other zoonotic diseases, such as leptospirosis, tuberculosis, and sealpox, can also be transmitted from seals to humans.
For seals, human interaction can lead to habituation, causing them to lose their natural fear of people. This makes them more vulnerable to harm, as habituated seals might approach dangerous areas like docks or fishing gear, or become susceptible to intentional harm. Approaching seals on land can cause them to abandon resting spots or rush into the water, expending valuable energy and potentially injuring themselves or their pups in a stampede. Disrupting natural behaviors like resting, foraging, or nursing causes stress, impacts energy balance, and negatively affects their health and reproductive success.
Safe Seal Viewing Practices
Observing seals safely and responsibly is important for the well-being of both humans and the animals. Maintain a distance of at least 50 yards (approximately half a football field) from seals, whether in water or on shore. Some areas or species may require greater distances, such as 100 yards or more, particularly during sensitive periods like pupping season. Using binoculars or telephoto lenses allows for close observation without disturbing them.
Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle seals. Never attempt to feed seals, as this can alter their natural foraging behaviors and lead to dependence on humans. Physical interaction, such as swimming with, riding, petting, or touching seals, is prohibited and dangerous. If a seal appears distressed, injured, or entangled, contact local wildlife authorities or marine mammal stranding networks immediately, rather than attempting to intervene. Keeping pets, especially dogs, on a leash and away from seals is also important, as dogs can cause stress to seals and potentially transmit diseases.