Those of us who walk the coastline of Monterey enjoy seeing all of the wonderful marine mammals along the way. However, it is important to know what to do you did see an animal in pain or acting strangely along the coast.
Thanks to the Marine Mammal Rescue, here are the 7 steps to help an injured or sick marine mamal.
- 1. Don’t Touch and do not pick up, pour water on or feed the animal! – They are wild animals and can bite. They also are easily stressed by humans.
- 2. 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.
- 3. Observe – Observe from a distance of at least 50 ft. Keep people/dogs away.
- 4. Describe – Note physical characteristics such as size, presence of external earflaps, and fur color. This helps determine the species, what rescue equipment and volunteers are needed.
- 5. Condition – Note the animal’s condition. Is it weak and underweight? Are there any open wounds.
- 6. Identification –Does the animal have any obvious identification tags or markings?
- 7. Location – Determine the exact location of the animal so you can provide directions.
- Call The Marine Mammal Center with as much information as you have! Response Hotlines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. (831) 633-6298