Leave marine mammals alone

We would like to take this opportunity to express our concern over a photograph of environmental videographer Earl Richmond holding a Pacific harbor seal pup that was published in the Jan. 27 edition of the Coastline Pilot.

Although we are not aware of the circumstances under which the photograph was taken, we must discourage the general public from seeking out similar photo opportunities. Marine mammals are protected under federal law and it is always a source of concern to us when we see photographs such as this that may encourage the public to pick up or otherwise disturb one of these protected animals.

This is the time of year when we begin to see many stranded sea lion pups on our local beaches and harbor-seal pupping season will begin in March. Pacific Marine Mammal Center suggests taking the following actions if a sick or injured marine mammal is spotted on shore:

* Do not approach the animal. Please keep a distance of 50 yards from the animal.

* Call Pacific Marine Mammal Center at (949) 494-3050 to report the exact location of the animal.

* Keep others from approaching the animal, as well as any dogs.

* Do not try to feed or throw water on the animal.

Thank you for your assistance in promoting the protection of our local wildlife.

For more information, visit www.pacificmmc.org.

* Michele Hunter is director of Operations/Animal Care at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach.