With so many people hunkering down in the East End’s relatively remote coastal towns, the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation has issued renewed guidance about safely sharing our shorelines with seals.
Most animals you encounter in nature are just going about their business and you’ll be doing them a favor if you simply keep your distance.
There is really no such thing as a beached seal; pinnipeds, unlike cetaceans, spend quite a bit of time out of the water. So there is no need for alarm (or a call to our local PD) if you spot one lazing on the shore.
Here are some other things to keep in mind:
- Up to five species can be seen in New York waters, but harbor and gray are the most common out here
- You may see them on the beach alone or in groups
- Stay at least 150 feet away
- Don’t let dogs harass wildlife of any kind, but especially seals — they may bite if threatened
- You can help scientists better understand seal populations by reporting your sightings to the DEC’s Flipper Files
- If you encounter a visibly injured animal, contact Shelter Island animal control at 631-749-5771
Learn more on the DEC’s marine mammal webpage at dec.ny.gov.
