Wildlife officials say to keep distance from seals

With recent seal sightings along the Atlantic coast of Delmarva, Assateague Island National Seashore is offering tips about how to safely view these marine mammals.

According to guidelines the park shared from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's fisheries unit, seals are federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. This act makes it illegal to harass, harm or even disturb seals in the wild.

NOAA Fisheries says to always stay at least 150 feet away from seals, for both their protection and yours: seals bite. Seals and pets don't mix either, the guidelines state, and pets should always be leashed when seals may be around.

Like all wild animals, wildlife officials say never to feed seals as it could make them sick or even make them become dependent on people. Officials say interacting with baby seals could cause the mother seal to abandon the pups.

Anyone who sees a seal that appears to be injured or sick is urged to call NOAA Fisheries at 866-755-6622. See the Assateague Island National Seashore tweet with the guidelines here.