By Mike Busch

Dr. Artie Kopelman of CRESLI reports that the Seals showed up a few weeks ago, just in time for the Seal Walks that start this weekend.

Since 2006, they have had over 21000 seal encounters on 370 trips.  Last year was the most successful, with an overall average of 78 seals per trip and an  average of 91 seals on haulout.

Artie wanted me to remind everyone to come on a guided trip the first time so they can learn how to photograph and observe the seals without harassing them.

Most of the adult females are pregnant and undisturbed rest is very important to them.

Saturday’s walk is from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and Sunday’s walk is from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.

More info here.

Organized by

Arthur Kopelman
PO Box 54
West Sayville, US 11796
6313196003 (voice)
president@cresli.org (email)

Description

CRESLI seal walks will take place between November and May. Please note that weather will play a significant role in determining the seal walk schedule. Please call CRESLI at (631) 319-6003 for schedule changes and cancellations. The walks are approximately 1.2 miles round trip and take about 1 to 2 hours. These walks are suitable for children, but soft sand makes it unsuitable for strollers.

Please be prepared for the weather, i.e., wear warm clothing in layers. Hats, gloves, warm shoes, are also recommended, as are cameras and binoculars. Check the weather for Westhampton Beach and assume that the winds will produce wind chill. It’s better to be a more-on, than a less-on, i.e., having more layers than you need is the right thing.

Who Should Attend

Open to all, reservations required

Register here

Venue

Cupsogue Beach Park
906 Dune Rd
Meet at western end of parking lot 15 minutes prior to walk
Westhampton Beach , NY
United States

Additional Information

Telephone: 631-319-6003
Website: https://www.cresli.org
E-mail: president@cresli.org

The video and images below were taken late last season.