OCEAN CITY, Md. - Maryland Coastal Bays says seal sightings have become more common on Delmarva over the past few years. If you're on the beach and see a seal, responders want to make sure you know what to do, because there's a chance that seal could be in trouble.
A seal was collected on Friday and sent to rehab in Baltimore. That seal was collected on Assateague and was visibly hurt when responders inspected it. It was reported by a national park service volunteer, but anyone and everyone can and should report a seal sighting.
Maryland Coastal Bays has partnered with the National Aquarium in Baltimore to promote responsible viewing and sight reporting.
In this case, the seal was taken to the National Aquarium for rehab.
It's important to note seals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
It is against the law to touch, feed or otherwise harass them.
And if you get closer than 50 yards to a beached seal, that is considered harrasment.
When a seal beaches itself its called called haul out.
When a seal hauls out -- you can't tell if its is in trouble, just resting, or birthing.
If you see a seal its important to call the marine animal stranding hotline. That number is 410-576-3880.