Seals are marine mammals found along coastlines worldwide, spending significant time both in water and on land. Understanding seal behavior and knowing how to act responsibly when encountering them is important for both human well-being and the seals’ protection.
Understanding Seal Behavior
Seals are semi-aquatic animals that regularly haul out onto land for various reasons, including resting, molting, and giving birth. This natural behavior means they are frequently observed on beaches, rocks, or even docks. While seals might appear curious, approaching boats or swimmers in the water, they are wild animals and generally prefer to avoid direct human contact.
Their movements on land can seem slow, but seals can move surprisingly quickly when motivated. They are typically shy, and any perceived aggression often stems from feeling threatened, cornered, or when protecting their young. For instance, mother seals may temporarily leave their pups on shore while they forage, and approaching these seemingly abandoned pups can cause distress to the mother and pup.
Real Risks and Encounters
While seal attacks are uncommon, they can occur under specific circumstances, primarily when seals feel threatened, are harassed, or are protecting their territory, especially during breeding season. Bites from seals can be serious, not only due to the physical injury but also because of the risk of infection.
A notable concern is a zoonotic infection known as “seal finger.” This condition is transmitted through bites, scratches, or contact with contaminated seal tissues. Symptoms include painful swelling, redness, and inflammation of the affected finger or hand; untreated, it can lead to joint damage and chronic inflammation. Modern treatment involves specific antibiotics, which are effective if administered promptly. This infection is more prevalent among individuals who have frequent close contact with seals, such as wildlife rehabilitators, veterinarians, and fishermen.
Safe Practices Around Seals
Maintaining a respectful distance from seals is the most effective way to prevent negative encounters and protect these animals. Federal guidelines recommend staying at least 50 to 100 yards (approximately 45 to 90 meters) away from seals and other marine mammals. This distance provides ample space for seals to behave naturally without feeling disturbed.
Never attempt to feed seals, as this can alter their natural behaviors and make them associate humans with food, potentially leading to aggressive interactions. Approaching seals, especially pups, or trying to touch them, can cause significant stress, leading them to flee or, if cornered, bite. Additionally, keeping pets, particularly dogs, on leashes when near seal habitats is important, as dogs can agitate seals and transmit diseases to them. Observing seals from a distance with binoculars can provide an enjoyable viewing experience without causing disturbance.
When to Seek Assistance
If you encounter a seal that appears distressed, injured, entangled in debris, or is in an unusual location, it is important not to intervene directly. Seals are wild animals, and approaching them can be dangerous to both you and the animal. Instead, contact local wildlife authorities or marine mammal rescue organizations.
These organizations have trained professionals equipped to assess the situation safely and provide appropriate assistance. Seals are protected under federal law, which prohibits harassing, feeding, hunting, capturing, or killing marine mammals without a permit. This legislation underscores the importance of allowing trained responders to handle such situations, ensuring compliance with legal protections and the welfare of the seals.