VAMMR’s rescue hotline is available 24 hours a day, and our trained team respond to marine mammal incidences 365 days a year. Our life-saving rescues are made possible with the support of people like you.
To report sick, injured or abandoned marine mammal, call VAMMR at 604-258-SEAL (7325) or call 1-800-465-4336 for large whales and other marine mammal incidents.
Your actions can make a difference. If you come across a marine mammal that appears to be injured, sick, or orphaned, following a few simple steps — and being Seal Smart — can help protect both you and the animal.
Do not touch, approach, feed, or attempt to move the animal. Never pour water on it or try to return it to the ocean. In Canada, it’s illegal to disturb a marine mammal. Wild animals can bite, scratch, or carry disease — and human interference often does more harm than good.
If the animal reacts to your presence, you’re too close. Keep a safe distance and ask others — especially children and pets — to do the same. Giving the animal space helps reduce stress and keeps everyone safe.
From a safe distance, note the animal’s size, colouring, body condition, and any visible injuries, entanglements, tags, or markings. Take photos, if possible, but only if you can do so without getting too close.
Note, if it’s a seal pup:
Don’t assume it’s been abandoned. Harbour seal pups are often left on shore while their mothers forage nearby. Scan the water — you may spot mom watching from a distance. Always report the sighting so trained responders can assess.
Call the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society (VAMMR) at 604-258-SEAL (7325) or the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) at 1-800-465-4336. Share the animal’s exact location including any landmarks or GPS location, if possible, a description of the animal's condition, and any photos or other details you’ve gathered.
By being Seal Smart — keeping your distance, observing carefully, and calling the experts — you’re giving these animals their best chance at survival.
All of our Marine Mammal response efforts are authorized and monitored by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) under licence # XMMS 1 2023. To learn more about DFO’s guidelines around observing marine wildlife please visit the DFO website.
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