LA JOLLA, Calif. (KGTV) — The City of San Diego installed a new sign at South Casa Beach last week stating, ‘No Selfies with Seals.'
Wilma Brito, who sells t-shirts in La Jolla, said she often sees visitors get too close to the pups.
“I get sad because there's no respect, they don't respect the animals,” said Brito.
Right now, access to the Children’s Pool is closed because of the seal pupping season, which runs until May.
“Two days ago, they had the moms and the newborn babies. They want to rest and be peaceful,” said Brito.
NOAA, who helped create the signs said it’s to remind visitors the seals are wild animals.
The City said those seen harassing, disturbing or flushing the seals can be cited.
The sign also states the sea lions and seals are protected by federal law, and that it is illegal to disturb them and to enjoy watching them in a safe and responsible way.
“They can bite you and they don't like to be disturbed in their habitat,” said Brito.
The City said the beach is monitored by rangers, lifeguards, and police.
