Seals are hauling onto New York City shores for their annual rest — and wildlife officials have a message for New Yorkers: Admire them from afar, or risk harming them and facing hefty fines, according to the Gothamist.
Seal season in New York typically runs from March through May, but harbor, grey and harp seals can be seen as early as November in some parts of the state, according to the Department of Environmental Conservation.
The DEC strongly advises keeping at least 150 feet of distance — and keeping pets away too.
It’s also illegal to touch, feed or disturb marine mammals under the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act. Violators could face up to one year in jail and fines of up to $20,000, the news agency reported.
Anyone who sees a seal that appears injured or in distress is urged to call the New York Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Hotline at 631-369-9829. Trained responders with the New York Marine Rescue Center will assess and assist the animal.
