DFO is asking the public to stay clear when they see seals hauled up on beaches and wharves.

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans often gets calls this time of year from citizens concerned about seals hauling up and lolling about on the land.

It’s all perfectly normal, says DFO marine mammal research scientist Dr. Garry Stenson.

See a seal hanging around your community? Laying about is normal behaviour. Please, leave it be. #DFONL pic.twitter.com/iCPHRjjgav

— DFO_NL (@DFO_NL) January 3, 2020

While adult seals tend to stay in the water, younger harp and hooded seals sometimes haul out for a rest. They have plenty of fat to live off of, and after a few days will head back into the water.

Dr. Stenson says if you do see a seal hauled up on the land, give it a wide berth and leave it alone.

The public is encouraged, however, to contact DFO if a seal makes its way onto the road and becomes a hazard to itself or the public.