Seal Spotted Chowing Down on Delicious Hudson River Fish in Croton-on-The-Hudson

It's not every day you get to see a water puppy in the Hudson River. Of course, when we say water puppy, we mean a seal!

Seal Spotted Fishing on The Hudson

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shared photos this week of a seal swimming around the Hudson River. The Harbor Seal was spotted in Croton-on-The-Hudson swimming and chowing down on some delicious Hudson River fish.

We're used to all types of wildlife in the Hudson Valley, remember the Moose in Dutchess County last September? But we're not used to seeing seals on a daily basis like we are deer.

With that being said, the DEC said that there are a few species of seals that are common in New York State.

Seals Are More Common in NY Than You Think

According to the DEC website seals can be found in New York from late fall until late spring. Seems like we're right in the thick of it, but they add "the highest concentration" generally occurs around April.

While 5 types of seal species can be seen in New York, the DEC adds that 3 types are most common: Harbor, Gray, and Harp seals.

Harbor seals, like the one spotted earlier this week, are the "most abundant and easily recognizable by their round head and blunt snout." You can find them in rocky areas on the beach "eating fish, shellfish, and crustaceans."

Gray seals, as pictured above, can dive up to 1,500 feet for one hour. Another fun fact, keep an ear out for them as they're very vocal as pups to help their mothers find them.

Harp Seals are rarely seen in New York, they are mostly an Arctic species, but the DEC reports "they are present here each year in small numbers."

See a Seal? Keep Your Distance

These sea puppies are cute as can be, but the New York State DEC wants to remind you that you need to keep your distance even if it looks like they might be stranded. They explain:

Never intervene with marine mammals or sea turtles. It is normal for a mother seal to leave her pup alone on the beach for up to 24 hours. Do not attempt to return a sea turtle to the water; it may be cold-stunned and need medical attention. Do not approach the animal.

The DEC adds that if you do come across a seal or turtle stay 50 yards away. If the seal you see is entangled or you believe they are stranded call the NYS Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Hotline at 631-369-9829.