Protect Our Wildlife: Mystic Aquarium Advises Caution at Sandy Point on Block Island

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Mystic Aquarium, in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Nature Conservancy of Block Island, is advising visitors at Sandy Point on Block Island to exercise caution. This advice is aimed at protecting the local wildlife, especially the seals that visit the area. Sandy Point, at the northern tip of Block Island, is popular among nature lovers and is an important habitat for seals, particularly during their resting and breeding seasons.

The partners stress the need to keep a safe distance from the seals, following Federal Marine Protection guidelines that recommend staying at least 150 feet away. This measure protects both the seals and visitors, as seals can carry harmful bacteria and may become aggressive during their breeding season.

Sarah Callan, Manager of Animal Rescue at Mystic Aquarium, noted that the public often isn't aware of the rules protecting marine mammals. She emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe distance to avoid the spread of diseases from animals to humans and pets. The partnership's goal is to educate visitors about these rules to ensure safety for both people and wildlife.

To support this educational effort, signs will be placed at Sandy Point. These signs will inform visitors about the local wildlife and safety measures. Additionally, NOAA’s website provides a detailed list of guidelines for interacting with marine mammals, offering more resources for responsible wildlife observation.