Today we release
d a Harbor seal (Phoca 
vitulina) back into Shinnecock Bay. She earned the nickname "slimer" because she liked to mash up her food and leave a slimy mess all over her face. You can tell she was eager to go home, because she scratched at the crate door until she was finally set free. ..although, she did find the time to look back and say goodbye to her temporary care takers.The antenna you see on her back is a satellite tag and is used to track her movement after release. It was applied to her coat with epoxy and will come off with her next molt.
The seal was rescued and rehabilitated by the Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation - Riverhead, NY. If you'd like to learn more about the Riverhead Foundation, please feel free to visit their website at: http://www.riverheadfoundation.org
Although everyone knows thats seals are wild animals, they often don't realize that seals can bite and claw when approached. It is actually unlawful for U.S. citizens to approach a marine mammal anywhere in the world, except under special circumstances such as working with a rescue organization, and it is recommended for safety that people keep a distance of about 50 yards. That doesn't mean you can't get a good view, however. When the Riverhead Foundation releases an animal, they often invite the public to show up to learn a little about the seal, and watch it return to the sea - it's always a great opportunity to safely see the animals up close and witness the end of a bittersweet journey. If you live on the coast, look up your local marine mammal rescue organization and see if they open their releases to the public.
If you'd like to observe seals in their natural habitat, look for a local organization that conducts seal cruises and other opportunities. The Riverhead Foundation has seal cruises with a naturalist to help spot seals and provide information about different breeds of seals, and how and when to spot them.
For more information on marine mammal stranding programs in your area, visit the NOAA Fisheries website for Marine Mammal Stranding Network Participants.
If you'd like to observe seals in their natural habitat, look for a local organization that conducts seal cruises and other opportunities. The Riverhead Foundation has seal cruises with a naturalist to help spot seals and provide information about different breeds of seals, and how and when to spot them.
For more information on marine mammal stranding programs in your area, visit the NOAA Fisheries website for Marine Mammal Stranding Network Participants.
