‘No selfies with seals,’ wildlife officials say

The NOAA urged people not to take photos of seal pups along New England’s shores.

Those heading to the beach this weekend in hopes of taking the perfect selfie should steer clear of of any baby seals, wildlife officials say.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) cautioned beach-goers against taking close-up pictures — including selfies — of seal pups along New England shores in a release Thursday. Instead of approaching the animals, officials urged those who see a seal pup to remain at least 50 yards away.

“There is no selfie stick long enough!” the release said.

While seals’ powerful jaws can pose a threat to those perceived as predators, wildlife officials also warned that getting too close to a seal pup could put the animal in danger. If the pup’s mother sees humans getting too close, she may not feel safe returning, and could also abandon the young seal, who is too young to fend for itself — a situation that became all too real for a baby bison in Yellowstone that was picked up earlier this month by tourists who believed they were helping an animal in distress.

“The best thing you can do if you want to help is keep away from the animal and keep your pets away from it, so the mother has a chance to return,” Mendy Garron, marine mammal stranding program coordinator for NOAA Fisheries Greater Atlantic Region, said in the release.

Officials also warned that while a young seal may appear to be alone, that doesn’t mean it’s need of assistance. Mothers often leave their pups on the beach while feeding, and it’s not uncommon for them to take 24 hours to return.

“As tempting as it might be to get that perfect shot of yourself or your child with an adorable seal pup, please do the right thing and leave the seal pup alone,” the release said.