It’s seal pup season: Here’s what to do if you spot one

SEATTLE — It’s currently seal pup season in Washington, and experts are reminding people about what to do if they spot a seal pup alone on the beach.

Seal pups need rest to warm up from the cold waters of Puget Sound and it’s not unusual to find them sleeping alone for many hours on beaches and shorelines.

According to local volunteer group Seal Sitters, mother seals are timid and will not return to shore for their pups if they feel unsafe. Because disturbances by humans can cause newborn pups to be abandoned, people should always view pups from a distance and never move or touch them.

To put it simply, leave them alone.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recommends people stay a minimum of 100 yards away.

Young seal pups are vulnerable. It is against federal and state law to harass seals by feeding, touching, or moving them to the water or another location.

Seal Sitters said harbor seal pups only have a 50% survival rate in their first year.

For information about who to call if you believe a seal pup or other marine mammal needs help, follow this link.

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