Carpinteria Seal Watch is a dedicated team of volunteers marking its 33rd year here at the Carpinteria Harbor Seal Rookery. The City of Carpinteria closes the beach from December 1 through May 31 of each year during the pupping season. The Federal Marine Mammal Act also imposes a fine for disturbing the seals. Volunteers monitor rookery activities to divert any human or dog encroachments to prevent, or minimize, the intensity of any disturbance. Data is collected that includes multiple daily counts of both adult and pups, any disturbances to the rookery, injured animals and the number of visitors observing the seals. On-site training is provided. The Carpinteria rookery is one of four remaining rookeries on the Southern California coast. Volunteers provide educational information to visitors from around the globe. Approximately 33,050 people visited the rookery in 2015 to observe our harbor seals. Seal Watch volunteers are at the rookery from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, seven days a week. We commit to one, 2-hour shift, once a week. Some volunteers serve as substitutes. Carpinteria Seal Watch offers volunteers a unique opportunity to be in nature, observe our seals, serve the community and have a great time.With the support of Seal Watch, there are seals at Carpinteria Harbor Seal Rookery and the public can view them in their spectacular natural setting from the bluff top above.
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Carpinteria Seal Watch 