Seals, captivating marine mammals, often spark human curiosity regarding their interactions with people. The question of whether seals are “nice” to humans is a common one, stemming from their seemingly approachable nature. It is important to understand that these are wild animals, and their behaviors should be interpreted within the context of their natural habitat and survival instincts, rather than through human notions of friendliness. This article provides clarity on how to interpret seal behavior and interact safely and respectfully with these creatures in their natural environment.
Understanding Seal Behavior
Seals are wild animals whose actions are primarily driven by instinct and the demands of their natural environment, not by human concepts of affection. Their behaviors, such as resting on land (hauling out), hunting for food, and interacting with other seals, are all part of their normal existence. Seals often haul out to rest, regulate their body temperature, avoid predators, or to give birth and nurse their pups. When on land, seals typically maintain a distance from each other, often several feet, and may show aggressive behaviors like growling or head-thrusting if another seal encroaches on their space.
A seal’s curiosity may lead them to approach boats or swimmers, which can be misinterpreted by humans as playfulness or friendliness. However, these approaches are generally driven by their natural inquisitiveness or an assessment of their surroundings. Similarly, what might appear as aggression, such as barking or slapping the water with their flippers, is often a display of self-defense or territoriality. These natural actions are rooted in self-preservation and resource acquisition, and it is important to remember that seals are not seeking interaction or companionship from humans.
Potential Dangers of Human-Seal Interaction
Direct interactions with seals pose inherent risks to both humans and the seals themselves. For humans, there is a risk of bites, which can be severe and transmit harmful bacteria. A notable infection associated with seal bites is “seal finger,” caused by Mycoplasma phocacerebrale, which can lead to painful swelling, reduced range of motion, and amputation if untreated. Other bacteria, such as Pasteurella multocida, commonly found in animal mouths, can also cause rapidly progressing infections from bites or scratches.
Close human presence also negatively impacts seals. Seals can become habituated to humans, losing their natural fear and becoming vulnerable to injury or abandonment by mothers, especially pups. Human disturbance can disrupt essential behaviors like resting, feeding, or nursing, leading to stress and potential abandonment of pups if mothers feel threatened.
Responsible Viewing of Seals
When encountering seals in their natural habitat, it is important to follow clear guidelines to ensure the safety of both humans and the animals. Maintaining a safe distance is paramount; wildlife authorities like NOAA Fisheries recommend staying at least 50 yards (about 45 meters) away from seals and sea lions, and some guidelines suggest 100 yards (about 90 meters), especially from mothers and pups. If a seal appears to be staring, fidgeting, or attempting to flee, it indicates that you are too close and should cautiously retreat.
Never attempt to feed, touch, or approach seals, including pups, as this can habituate them and is illegal under federal laws like the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). This act prohibits the “take” of marine mammals, which includes harassment, feeding, hunting, capturing, or killing them. Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle seals. If you encounter an injured or stranded seal, report it immediately to local wildlife rescue organizations, such as the NOAA Fisheries Marine Mammal Stranding Network, rather than attempting to intervene directly.