First DFD of the Season Arrives
Earthquakes, an eclipse, a seal, oh my! On Saturday morning, the first DFD of the season, a seal, came out to enjoy some sunshine and relaxation before heading back into the water.
The seal, believed to be a harbor seal, made it all the way up to the dune fencing on Beach 127th when he was discovered by locals on Saturday morning. Officials were notified and members of NYC Parks and the NYS Environmental Conservation Police came out to rope off the area where the seal was and monitor it while it relaxed on the beach. The seal appeared to be in good condition and made its way back into the water on its own before noon on Saturday.
It is common during winter and late spring for seals to haul out onto the beach to relax. It is advised to give them their space and stay at least 150 feet away. If a seal appears to be in distress, call the New York Marine Center stranding hotline at (631) 389-9829.
Photo by Katie McFadden.