NR-MAR-06-01E

SEAL PUPS AND HUMANS: A RISKY INTERACTION

January 26, 2006

Dartmouth, N.S. - Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) wishes to remind people who encounter seals along the shores of the region to exercise caution.

At this time every year, pregnant grey seals pull themselves out of the waters of Atlantic Canada to give birth to pups. The pups are born on island rookeries around Nova Scotia, the ice of the Northumberland Strait in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and on Sable Island.

After about three weeks, the females abandon their pups, which weigh between 50 and 60 kgs. The young seals remain on shore for another two to three weeks during which time they molt, shedding their white coat for a mottled grey one. Once molted and having depleted their reserves of fat, the grey seals enter the waters and start to forage. Foraging brings many of them to the shores of Nova Scotia. These seals, once they have fed, come out of the water and rest for periods as long as 48 hours. So, it is quite normal to see a young seal resting on the shore, which inevitably brings them in contact with humans.

Although these seals look "cute and cuddly," it should be remembered that they are wild animals and should be left alone. If cornered or believe that they are being threatened, they may respond by attacking. Their bites can be serious, requiring medical attention such as antibiotics and stitches.

It is against the law for an unlicensed person to interfere with marine mammals in Canada. Anyone encountering a seal on the beach or other such location should leave the animal alone and keep children and pets away. If for some reason the seal poses a risk to public health and safety, such as being on a highway, please contact your local municipal authorities, or call the Government of Canada Environment Emergency Hotline at 1-800-565-1633.

FOR MORE INFORMATION::