Bay Area beachgoers were advised this week to steer clear of harbor seals during pupping season, and to not mistake baby seals left alone as orphans.
Newborn seal pups are typically born in late winter and spring and could suffer permanent harm if moved by anyone who is not authorized for marine mammal rescue, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary.Authorities: San Jose Home Depot Arson Suspect Shoplifted Minutes Earlier, Was On Probation
“Each year, our trained experts respond to more than 100 seals and sea lions impacted by human interaction and harassment,” said Adam Ratner, associate director of conservation education at The Marine Mammal Center. “We’re fortunate to share our shores in California with many marine mammals but see the negative impact that is possible.”
Every year harbor seal pups are separated from their mothers by people who mistake them for orphans because the baby seals are alone, according to officials with the marine sanctuary.However, the mothers of the pups aren’t abandoning them instead they are feeding at sea and later rejoin their babies to nurse them.
Seals are federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and anyone interfering with them could receive legal penalties, according to the press release.
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