It is breeding season for Northern Elephant Seals (Mirounga angustirostris) which means elephant seals are coming onshore to give birth and mate. Because elephant seal breeding grounds are also popular destinations for humans seeking to observe this once nearly extinct marine mammal, precautions are needed to ensure the safety of both the humans and the elephant seals.
Point Reyes National Seashore is located just north of San Francisco in Marin County and had an estimated 3,000 elephant seals in 2018. In order to ensure elephant seals are safe from cars, the team at Point Reyes recently installed temporary barriers that block the elephant seals from entering the parking lot.
If you spot a marine mammal in a city, take a picture and tag us on twitter. But remember, always give marine mammals plenty of space to ensure your safety and the safety of the animal. And if you spot an injured or entangled individual contact the NOAA Stranding Network at 1-866-767-6114.
Do you have a photo or video of an urban species doing something unusual? What about a rare plant or animal that you were surprised to find in a city? If so, let Lindsay know or tweet at us and you could be featured as a future observation of the week!
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