Harbor, grey, and harp seals are seen regularly on many of New York’s saltwater beaches and in bays during the winter and early spring. The height of the season in New York is typically March through May, but seals appear as early as November and December in some parts of New York. Seals can commonly be seen hauled out (laying) on rocks and sandbars. This behavior is essential for seals to rest, socialize, and regulate body temperature.
The public is reminded that while seals may appear friendly and adorable, they are wild animals with sharp teeth, capable of biting and spreading diseases to humans and pets. People and pets should stay at least 50 yards (150 feet) away from seals. While viewing seals from this legally safe distance, if the seal’s behavior changes and/or it notices observer presence, that is a sign to move further away. Signs of stress in seals include raising their flippers, showing their teeth, yawning, and eating sand and rocks.
Protecting New York’s Marine Mammals
New York’s marine waters are visited year-round by many species of marine mammals. The federal Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), administered by the National Ocean and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), requires people to maintain a safe and legal distance from marine mammals on water and land. Check NOAA’s Marine Life Viewing Guidelines for specific viewing distance laws and regulations for various marine mammal species.
It is illegal to touch, feed, disturb, or harass marine mammal species, including seals, whales, dolphins, and porpoises. A violation of the MMPA may result in up to one year of jail time and/or fines up to $20,000.
The public can best help injured or distressed marine mammals by reporting sightings immediately to the New York Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Hotline at (631) 369-9829 so that trained responders can properly assess and care for these animals. The hotline is monitored by the New York Marine Rescue Center (NYMRC) who are federally permitted and trained to handle marine mammals and administer professional medical care.
Response teams work collaboratively with DEC, NOAA Fisheries, and numerous other partners to develop and implement a response to successfully provide the most effective and efficient aid to distressed or stranded animals.
