Harbor seals return to the jersey shore, public advised to keep their distance — Photo of a seal - Stock Photo

ATLANTIC COUNTY, NJ — Harbor seals have been sighted in Atlantic County, marking their seasonal return, according to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center.

The center reported the first confirmed sighting of a Harbor seal yesterday. Seals often swim long distances from the north and haul out on beaches for much-needed rest. The center stressed the importance of “seal etiquette,” advising people and pets to remain at least 150 feet away from the marine mammals.

Interactions with humans or pets can be stressful for seals, sometimes causing them to reenter the water before fully rested. The center offered a “thumbs-up” guideline: if a person can still see the seal behind their extended thumb, they are too close.

The Marine Mammal Stranding Center also asked the public not to share the seals’ locations on social media and to report any sightings to their hotline at (609) 266-0538.

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