Top 8 Tips for Safe Wildlife Viewing

Picture this: you’re on a beach doing your Shoreline Saver Mission. Suddenly, you see an animal! It’s hard to tell what it is…maybe if you just got a little bit closer…WAIT! Before you go any farther, make sure you follow these tips to keep you and the animal safe!

Give Them Lots of Space

Think twice before getting too close to wildlife. You could get hurt, but you can also hurt or scare them. If an animal is looking at or reacting to you, you’re too close.

TIP: Use the zoom on your camera to see up close while staying away. If you snap some pics, make sure the flash is off!

Keep Dogs at a Safe Distance

No matter how friendly your dog is, it will not be a wild animal’s BFF. Make sure you keep your dog on a leash to protect both them and wildlife.

Look for Signs and Barriers

We use signs and barriers for all sorts of things. They might mark off important wildlife nesting or resting spots. They might protect fragile habitats or tell you to stay on a trail. Signs and barriers are there for a reason so make sure you follow them. 

Call the Experts

If you see an animal that’s in trouble or hurt, call the experts! Contact your local wildlife center. They’ll know just what to do. Work with your parents to find their number online.

TIP: For marine mammals in northern and central California, call The Marine Mammal Center at 415-289-SEAL. For injured birds, follow these tips from International Bird Rescue: https://www.birdrescue.org/

Learn About Local Wildlife

Before you head out on your next adventure, do some research! Try to learn about the kinds of wildlife you might see. Are there any extra steps you can take to help keep them safe?

Watch Your Speed

If you’re on a boat, ask the driver to slow down near the shore and harbor. The waves from your boat could disturb wildlife. Turn off the engine if an animal gets close.

Secure Your Snacks

Human food can make animals really sick. It’s very important that you don’t feed them. You should also make sure to take home any food wrappers or containers you have. They smell like food and can attract animals who might eat them by mistake.

Spread the Word

Share these tips with your friends and family! The more Wildlife Heroes we have, the safer animals will be!

Clean a shoreline and help make the world a cleaner, safer place for wildlife with the Shoreline Saver Mission! Look for it in the Missions section!

Complete the Mission by June 30 and get a FREE common loon or harbor seal Digital Adoption Kit!