Harbour seal pupping season has arrived, what to do if you spot one in distress
If you spot an orphaned seal pup in distress, call the experts
Harbour seal pupping season has returned along the scenic coastline of British Columbia, and although it's an exciting time to observe these marine mammals in their natural habitat, it is crucial the public keep their distance and not disturb them.
“With the beginning of the harbour seal pupping season, it is important to remind people when they see harbour seal pups by themselves, to stay back and observe from a distance and to call The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society (VAMMR) or Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) so we can accurately assess each situation," states VAMMR Assistant Manager, Emily Johnson in a press release.
VAMMR rescues over 100 animals annually, with over 80 per cent surviving to be returned to coastal waters.
So far this year, the non-profit has rescued two seal pups, Gustav and Poppy. Gustav arrived in late May after being found by a contractor at Mosquito Creek Marina. Poppy was first noticed on a beach in Port Hardy by a mother and son who suspected she might be in trouble.
This pup was affectionately named Gustav by one of VAMMR’s supporters. (Mia Gordon/The Weather Network)
"Oftentimes, the pups that come in are dehydrated ... maybe they haven't been with mom in a couple of days, and most of the patients that come in are pups that would be maternally-dependant, oftentimes younger than a week [old]," Johnson said in an interview with The Weather Network.
"Stabilizing them, getting them rehydrated, and starting some nutrition, are the three most important first steps."
If members of the public spot a marine mammal that appears to be in distress, they're advised to stay back, keep other people and animals away, and call the Marine Mammal Rescue Society at 604-258-SEAL (7325) or DFO at 1-800-465-4336.
To learn more about the important work being done by VAMMR, watch the video above.
Article contains files from The Weather Network reporter, Mia Gordon
