Seal Walks

    On Long Island we are lucky to have many nature events and programs that are open to us all year round. At the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center at Jones Beach State Park you can enjoy many different types of nature events including the annual Seal Walks which take place every weekend from January – March. The walk is open to all ages offering a wonderful opportunity to see the Seals in their natural environment. The walk lasts about an hour and a half and costs $4.00 per person. The kinds of Seals usually seen are the Harbor, Harp and Grey Seals. Although in recent years, "arctic" species such as Hooded and Ringed Seals that were once extremely rare for Long Island have also become more commonly sighted. Throughout the year Jones Beach also offers wildlife watches for Osprey, Striped Bass, Piping Plovers, Fiddler Crabs, Raptors, and many more amazing animals. For more information and to make reservations for the Seal Walks at Jones Beach call (516) 780-3295
    Another great organization that offers Seal Walks and Cruises is the Coastal Research and Education Society of Long Island (CRESLI). The suggested donation to join the walk is $5 per adult, $3 for those under 18. They also offer a seasonal pass which is a great value if you’re planning on participating in many of the walks. CRESLI Seal Walks run now thru May 8th.  To make reservations and for more information on all their animal watching programs go to www.cresli.org
    To watch my video on Seals visit me at www.VictoriasAmazingWorld.com

Victoria’s Fun Facts and Tips:

• Seals are able to hold their breath for a long time during dives, using oxygen stored in the blood and muscles as well as the lungs.

• Harbor Seals have a thick layer of blubber to keep them warm in the cold water.  

• Seals have large eyes which enable them to see quite well both above and below the water.

• Seals have no tear ducts and look like they are crying when observed on land.

• There is a total of 33 species of Seals.

• It’s a good idea to bring a camera with a zoom lens so you can get great pictures. 

• Remember to dress warm because it’s usually cooler by the water.

• Make sure to make reservations and confirm before going on the walk due to the changing winter weather.

"Remember when watching the seals, keep your distance to avoid any danger and harm to you and the seal"