PORTLAND, Maine — While seals may look cute, fluffy, and like they would give warm hugs, it's important to remember they are wild animals.
Over the past few days, these marine mammals have been seeking refuge offshore to find quiet, safe places to rest after Sunday's storm brought heavy wind and surf.
Marine Mammals of Maine (MMoME) took to social media to share a friendly reminder about the importance of giving the seals some space.
"Some seals have landed in unusual spots due to the marine weather and simply needed a better spot to wait out the storm, and others have needed medical assistance at our center," the nonprofit organization said in a Facebook post.
One seal was spotted in the middle of the Fore River marsh in Portland but is now back in the ocean, Portland Trails said on Facebook.
Others have been found in a front yard in Wells, on Ferry Beach in Scarborough, and across a marsh behind a log in Kennebunk.
MMoME said it's extra important during weather events to leave the seals alone, let them rest, and report them to trained responders.
If you come across a seal offshore in Maine, you can report it to 1-800-532-9551.