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Dartmouth, N.S. - Fisheries and Oceans Canada 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. This year seals have been pupping closer
to shore, as the ice was late in forming.
After about three weeks, the females abandon their pups, which
weigh between 50 and 60 kilograms. 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. These seals, if cornered or
believe that they are being threatened, 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.
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