Seals can indeed bite. While such incidents are uncommon, a bite can occur under specific circumstances. Generally, seals are not aggressive towards humans and typically avoid contact. However, as wild animals, they possess natural defenses and their behavior can become unpredictable, particularly when they perceive a threat.
Understanding Why Seals Might Bite
Seals may bite humans due to natural instincts and environmental triggers. A primary reason is self-defense, as seals can feel threatened by close human presence. This defensive behavior is especially pronounced when protecting their young pups or their established territory. Human disturbance during their resting periods on land can also cause significant stress.
Mistaken identity can also lead to a bite, such as when a seal confuses a human hand or an object for food, particularly if they have been accustomed to being fed by people. Injured or ill seals may exhibit unpredictable or defensive behavior. Seals are generally curious, and their exploration can sometimes involve their mouths, which can result in an unintentional bite if they are startled.
Assessing the Risk of Seal Encounters
The likelihood of a seal bite is low, as these animals are not inherently aggressive towards humans. When bites do occur, they are usually a defensive reaction rather than an unprovoked attack. However, a seal bite can be serious due to the potential for severe infection from bacteria present in their mouths. Their mouths harbor various bacteria, including Mycoplasma species, which can cause persistent and painful conditions.
Bites are most likely to happen when individuals approach seals too closely, attempt to feed them, or interfere with pups. Seals, particularly mothers with young, can become defensive if their space is invaded. Incidents can also occur when seals are entangled or injured, as they may lash out when approached. Even seemingly playful interactions can result in a bite, as seals, like many animals, explore their environment with their mouths.
Safety Measures Around Seals
Maintaining a respectful distance from seals is the most effective way to prevent bites. Wildlife organizations generally recommend staying at least 50 yards (approximately 150 feet) away from seals, both on land and in the water. If a seal’s behavior changes, such as staring, fidgeting, or vocalizing, move further away. Never attempt to feed seals, as this alters their natural foraging behaviors and can lead to dangerous encounters.
It is also important to avoid approaching seal pups, even if they appear to be alone or in distress, as the mother is likely nearby and may abandon her pup if human presence is too close. Keeping pets on leashes in areas where seals are present helps prevent disturbances that could agitate the animals. Swimming with or attempting to touch seals is strongly discouraged, as their unpredictable nature and powerful jaws pose a risk.
Responding to a Seal Bite
Immediate and appropriate action is necessary if a seal bite occurs. The first step involves thoroughly cleaning the wound with soap and water to remove contaminants and reduce the bacterial load. After washing, applying a disinfectant such as povidone-iodine can further help to sterilize the area. If the wound is bleeding, apply direct pressure with a clean cloth to help stop the flow, and elevate the injured area if possible.
Seeking prompt medical attention is paramount, even for seemingly minor bites, as seals carry bacteria that are not commonly found in other animal bites. Informing medical professionals that the bite came from a seal is important because specific bacteria, such as Mycoplasma phocacerebrale, can cause a severe infection known as “seal finger.” This infection can lead to painful swelling, joint involvement, and can be resistant to common antibiotics like penicillin. Treatment typically involves specific antibiotics, such as tetracycline or doxycycline, and a tetanus shot may be necessary if your vaccination is not current.