Seaside Heights, NJ – The seals are back in New Jersey and the Marine Mammal Stranding Center is asking the public to give them some space.
Common seals spotted at the Jersey Shore are grey seals, harbor seals and harp seals.
The Marine Mammal Stranding Center advises you do not go near the seals when they are on the beach and give them at least 150 feet of distance.
“The seals are here, please give them a break! The best way you can do that is to give them plenty of space to rest undisturbed by keeping people and dogs at least 150 feet away,” the MMSC said today. “Not sure what this looks like? Give the seal a “thumbs up”- if you can still see the seal behind your thumb, you’re too close.”
The MMSC also asks that you don’t publicize your seal sightings. If you do see a seal, do not post the location on social media.
“The second way you can help the seals is to never share locations of seals on social media. One post can encourage other people to seek out the seals, creating more disturbance for these animals,” the MMSC said.
The MMSC operates a 24-hour hotline at (609) 266-0538 to report sightings, and please help us spread the word by sharing this post with others.