If you see a pinniped in distress

It is best to contact an experienced marine mammal rescue organization before attempting to rescue a seal, sea lion, or any other marine mammal. Trained rescuers will assess the situation and determine whether intervention is necessary.

It is quite normal for seals and sea lions (pinnipeds) to spend time on land, and does not in itself indicate a rescue is needed. 30-40% of their time may be spent ashore; resting, socializing, escaping predators, giving birth and nursing, or warming themselves in the sun. Some species will mate on land as well.

If you see a pinniped on land, do not attempt to coax, pull, or push it back into the water. Seals and sea lions are wild animals, and approaching too closely can cause them undue stress. If they feel threatened, they may bite (even small pups!). Keep them and yourself safe by staying back as far as possible (the Canadian Marine Mammal Regulations specify a distance of 100m).

It is also important to keep pets away. Dogs may inflict wounds on marine mammals, and there is a risk of disease transmission between the species.

Observing from a distance, try to collect the following information:

• Does the animal have any visible wounds or swellings?

• Is the animal breathing? Through its nose or its mouth? Does the breathing sound congested or laboured?

• How large is the animal? What colour is its fur? Try to determine what species it may be (see the Education section of this website for details on identification).

• Does it have a plump, rounded appearance, or does it appear thin?

• Is the animal responsive? Note its behaviour: is it active, aggressive, lethargic, vocal?

Call the Vancouver Aquarium’s Marine Mammal Rescue at 604-258-SEAL with the details, and we will instruct you on how best to proceed. If you are outside British Columbia, call your local animal rescue organization.