Seal Season Is Here

Keep a safe distance away from seals

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) is reminding New Yorkers to share the shore with seals. The height of seal season in New York is upon us, and that means there is an increase in the potential for seal and human interactions as well.

It is very normal to see a single seal, even quite young, on the beach alone. Seals are at home on land just as much as they are in the water and do not require any assistance from us—except maintaining a safe and legal distance.

Please always keep at least 50 yards away from seals. Remember, if the seal is aware of your presence, you’re too close. Other signs that a person or pet are too close include raising flippers, yawning, eating sand and/ or rocks, and showing their teeth, as the seal pictured here is doing.

Seals and other marine mammals are protected by federal and state law. Only federally permitted individuals may handle them. If a seal appears injured or sick, call the 24-hour New York Stranding Hotline at 631-369-9829. Trained responders will administer any and all care the animal might require.

If you observe an individual harassing or endangering protected species like seals, please contact DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) to report the incident by calling 1-844-DECECOS for 24-hour dispatch or emailing central.dispatch@dec.ny.gov (for non-urgent violations). For urgent violations involving physical interaction, please use the Stranding Hotline.

For more information on keeping a safe distance from marine mammals, visit DEC’s website (www.dec.ny.gov/press/126948. html).

—New York State Department of Environmental Conservation