Seal season: What to do if you come across a seal on shore
This time of year, seals are a common sight along beaches and on land, but wildlife experts say seeing these animals on shore isn't usually a cause for alarm.
Hope Swinimer, founder of Hope for Wildlife, says the semi-aquatic animals spend a third of their life on shore because they enjoy basking in the sun and drying out.
"They often lay on their side, people are often concerned and call because they do weird poses, but this is all very normal," says Swinimer.
This season, seals typically begin their molt and have less fur, but the animals don't have a strong ability to thermal regulate -- leading them to be more present out of the water. Swinimer says this happens on a yearly basis.
Come May, the population may grow and baby harbour seals will become another sight to see on the beach. Depending on the species, they are usually out of the water for at least three weeks.
Swinimer adds if a seal is seen out in the sun, the public should keep a distance as crowding can stress the animal.
"Stay at least 150 feet away, control your dog if you're dog is walking with you, and try and keep other people away too. It's incredibly stressful for the seal if you approach it," says Swinimer.
Wildlife experts are encouraging people to never attempt to put the animal back in the water, saying they chose to be out of it and want to soak up the sun.
"Just let them rest and absorb the sun and let them do what they like to do," says Swinimer.
However, if a seal has distress signs, such as nasal discharge, gloopy and closed eyes, open wounds, or flies around the animal, it's best to reach out to Marine Animal Response Society (MARS) or Hope for Wildlife and they will help the situation.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.