NOAA FISHERIES REMINDS BEACH GOERS:
"DON'T HARASS SEA LIONS OR SEALS"

As summer approaches, increasing numbers of sea lions and seals can be found on beaches and rocks along the Alaska coast. Although they may appear stranded, sick, injured or abandoned, these marine mammals the are usually just "hauled out" on shore. The term "hauled out " is when a sea lion or seal comes out of the water to rest, avoid predators, give birth, care for their pups, or moult (the annual shedding of old hair). The National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) reminds people to enjoy watching seals and sea lions from a safe and responsible distance to protect the health and safety of both the animals and humans.

"We are entering the pupping season for harbor seals in Alaska," said Kaja Brix, NOAA Fisheries Marine Mammal Stranding Coordinator - Alaska Regional Office. "The public should be aware that harbor seal pups are often left on the beach while the mothers forage. These pups are not abandoned. Please do not pick these animals up."

The Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 (MMPA) protects seals, sea lions and all species of marine mammals. Under the MMPA, it is illegal to harass or feed marine mammals in the wild. Violations of the MMPA can result in civil penalties of up to $12,000 and criminal fines of up to $20,000 and jail time.

While these animals may look friendly, it is important that citizens use caution when recreationing or working near the coastal water.

"Over the last couple of years I seen an increase of Steller sea lion activity in the Homer boat harbor," said Enforcement Officer Jim Wisher, NOAA Fisheries Office for Law Enforcement - Alaska Division. "Just last summer a vacationing grandmother and her grandson were knocked down by a Steller sea lion when it suddenly jumped up on the float they were standing on."

In order to avoid causing harassment of seals, NOAA Fisheries' Seal/Sea Lion Watching Guidelines recommend that people observe the animals from a safe distance of at least 50 yards, limit viewing time to 30 minutes or less, avoid making loud noises or abrupt movements, and keep pets on a leash.

"Marine mammal stranding networks are authorized by NOAA Fisheries to respond to marine mammals in need of assistance,"said Dr. Janet Whaley, the National Marine Mammal Stranding Coordinator for NOAA Fisheries Office of Protected Resources. "Stranding network members have special training and expertise for responding to sick or injured marine mammals. People should notify the proper authorities if they encounter a sick or stranded animal. Distressed animals can be dangerous and bite, and should only be handled by trained professionals."

If people find a seal entangled, struck by a vehicle or boat, or otherwise visibly injured, NOAA Fisheries requests that they contact the toll-free Office for Law Enforcement hotline at 1-800-853-1964 or the nearest stranding network member. In Alaska, contact the Alaska SeaLife Center at telephone (907) 224-6395.

NOAA Fisheries is dedicated to protecting and preserving our nation's living marine resources through scientific research, management, enforcement, and the conservation of marine mammals and other protected marine species and their habitat. To learn more about NOAA Fisheries, please visit http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov. To learn more about the NOAA Fisheries in Alaska, please visit http://www.fakr.noaa.gov