(Photo by Jack Reynolds)
The ocean water is still rather chilly, meaning beachgoers may spot an occasional seal on the sand. Seals, as the Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine emphasizes, are protected by both state and federal laws; it is therefore illegal to approach or touch them.
The MMSC recommends a viewing distance of at least 150 feet away and, as well, a call to the center – at 609-266-0538 – to report a sighting.
“Most seals come onto the shore just to take a rest, and if you approach them, they will get scared and may return to the sea before they’re ready,” the center explains. “If they’re injured, they will not get the care they need. Please also keep all pets away from the animals, as they will most definitely scare them and may also contract any diseases the seal is carrying.”
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, meanwhile, says it’s “best to avoid making the animal aware of your presence: keep noise down, stay hidden,” and do not offer any food to the seal, or any other marine mammal.
“(Seal) pups are often left alone for up to 24 hours while the mother feeds,” NOAA adds. “They are not abandoned and should not be disturbed.”
According to the MMSC, the seals most commonly seen in and around New Jersey beaches are harbor seals, harp seals, gray seals, hooded seals and, less frequently, ringed seals. “They most often strand between November and May when our waters are the coldest and return to the north during the summer months,” the center notes.
The MMSC, started in 1978 by Robert Schoelkopf and Sheila Dean, has responded to more than 5,100 strandings of seals, whales, dolphins and sea turtles. For the animals that need help, “the stranding center’s goal is to provide continual and improved rehabilitation services,” Schoelkopf, the center director, has stated. “Our aspirations of accomplishment are gauged on the number of animals we can successfully rehabilitate and return to the wild.”
In addition to seals, the center points out, “Whales, dolphins and sea turtles are also protected by state and federal laws. The same rules apply. Please keep a safe distance, and call” if one of these animals is on a local beach.
NOAA’s guidelines for viewing marine life is available at fisheries.noaa.gov/insight/viewing-marine-life.
To learn more about the MMSC, including how to volunteer or how to donate, visit mmsc.org, email info@mmsc.org or call 609-266-0538. —J.K.-H.
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