What YOU can do for a Stranded Marine Mammal
1. Don’t Touch!
Do not touch, pick up, or feed the animal. They are wild animals, and can bite. They also are easily stressed by humans. Do not return the animal to the water. Seals and sea lions temporarily “haul out” on land to rest. Harbor seal mothers often leave their pups ashore while they’re feeding at sea. A beached whale, dolphin, or porpoise should be reported immediately.
2. Observe
Observe the animal from a distance of at least 50 feet. Keep people and dogs away.
3. Describe
Note physical characteristics such as size, presence of external earflaps, and fur color. This helps us determine the species and what rescue equipment and volunteers are needed.
4. Condition
Note the animal’s condition. Is it weak and underweight? Are there any open wounds?
5. Identification
Does the animal have any obvious identification tags or markings?
6. Location
Determine the exact location of the animal, in order to provide accurate directions. We cannot rescue an animal if we cannot find it!
7. Call!
Call The Marine Mammal Center at 415.289.SEAL (.7325) with as much information as you have. In Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties, call 831.633.6298. Our Rescue Hotlines operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Click on the images above to learn more about the animal
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