Seals are marine mammals that often draw human interest. Despite their seemingly approachable nature, it is important to avoid touching or closely approaching them.
Protecting Human Safety
Seals are wild animals and can exhibit unpredictable behaviors, particularly if they feel threatened or cornered. They possess sharp teeth and powerful jaws capable of inflicting severe bites and scratches.
There is a risk of zoonotic disease transmission from seals to humans. Contact can expose humans to pathogens like Leptospirosis, Salmonella, and E. coli. A bacterial infection called “seal finger” can result from bites or contact with compromised skin, leading to painful localized infections. Avian influenza (H3N8) has also been found in seals and can be transmitted to humans.
Protecting Seal Welfare
Human interaction can negatively impact seals, causing considerable stress. Approaching or touching seals disrupts their natural behaviors, such as resting, nursing their young, or molting. This stress can weaken their immune systems, making them more vulnerable to illness.
Seals can become habituated to human presence, leading them to approach people or populated areas. This habituation can inadvertently place them at greater risk from boats, fishing gear, or other human activities. Mother seals may abandon their pups if they perceive a human threat or if the pup carries human scent. Abandoned pups often struggle to survive. Seals can also be vulnerable to pathogens from humans, as their immune systems may not be equipped to handle human diseases.
Legal Protections for Seals
Laws safeguard seals and other marine mammals from human interference. In the United States, the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) makes it unlawful to harass, harm, feed, or hunt marine mammals. This includes any action that disrupts a seal’s normal behavioral patterns or causes injury or distress.
Violations of the MMPA can result in substantial penalties. Individuals may face civil penalties of up to $36,498, criminal fines, and even imprisonment for up to one year.
Responsible Seal Encounters
When encountering seals, maintaining a safe distance is important. Experts recommend staying at least 50 to 100 yards away, roughly the length of a football field. Using binoculars or zoom lenses allows for observation without disturbing the animals. Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle them.
Never attempt to feed seals, as this can alter their natural foraging behaviors and lead to aggression or entanglement. If a seal appears injured, entangled, or in distress, contact local wildlife authorities or a marine mammal stranding network. Organizations like the NOAA Fisheries stranding network are equipped to handle such situations. Only trained professionals should intervene.