03/28/2021
HI Neighbors, it's seal season and here's a post explaining why it's important to keep 150 feet away if you encounter one. ❤
..and if you do encounter one, please call MERR (Marine Education, Research & Rehabilitation Institute) in Lewes at 302.228.5029 with location and conditions info, again keeping a distance of 150 feet. MERR will come out and check on the seal to see if it is just resting, or if it needs any assistance. 🌊☀️
"I am very tired, let me explain why. I am a Grey Seal, and I was born on an island in Maine only a few months ago. We stay with our mothers for only two weeks, and then we are completely independent and on our own. We follow the fish south, almost 500 miles until we reach New Jersey. I have made this long journey by myself, evading predators and hunting for my own fish. It has been a lot to learn in a short period of time! So now I am very tired, and I have hauled out on this beach to rest and regulate my body temperature before moving on. Before now, I have not had much experience with humans. They are alien to me, standing very tall on two legs and making loud sounds. I have learned that when the humans are around I must stay vigilant, which makes me even more tired. Sometimes I even have to flee back into the ocean before I am ready because I am so nervous! Also, even though you like to call me cute names like “sea doggo”, I don’t want to be friends with your dogs, we are natural enemies and can hurt each other very badly. I am a carnivore with very sharp teeth to hunt live fish, so I don't need you to try to feed or pet me, I will bite you if you get too close. Please just respect me for who I am- a wild animal trying to survive. Stay at least 150 feet away from me, more if I lift my head and notice you. I am very tired, so just leave me alone to rest, and don’t tell the other humans where I am. If you are concerned about me, please call the MMSC 24-hour hotline (609) 266-0538 and trained Stranding Technicians will check on me. Thank you!"
