Harbor Seal Spotted in Hoboken Waters

The recent appearance of a harbor seal is making waves in Hoboken.

Several residents reported spotting the animal in the waters around Pier 13 on March 23. Since then, social media sites have been flooded with photos and subsequent tales of seal sightings.

Multiple seals in the waters around Hoboken have been reported in recent years.

While the seal sightings have thrilled many Hoboken residents, authorities warn that the best way to appreciate the creatures is at a distance.

“While they may look cute, if you see a harbor seal, please keep your distance… They are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act,” warns a post on the Hoboken City Facebook page.

“When watching seals, stay back about 150 feet in order to prevent unnecessary stress and abandonment of their basking sites. Approaching seals can cause them to feel threatened and they may bite.”

Have a photo or story about a Hoboken harbor seal? Send it to eric.kiefer@patch.com for possible publication.