Marine Life Viewing Guidelines

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98, 0)), url('/s3//styles/inline_field_banner/s3/dam-migration/1280x800-whale-tails.jpg?itok=5WTLvNf_');"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="hero__content col-md-12"> <h1 class="hero__title display">Marine Life Viewing Guidelines</h1> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="hero-subnav__wrapper topic_wrapper"><div class="container hero-sub-nav__container"> <nav class="hero-sub-nav"> <a href="/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/overview" class="sub-nav__link link hero-link--subnav hero-sub-nav__link--active" data-id="overview">Overview</a> <a href="/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/guidelines-and-distances" class="sub-nav__link link hero-link--subnav " data-id="guidelines-and-distances">Guidelines & Distances</a> <a href="/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/photography-and-video" class="sub-nav__link link hero-link--subnav " data-id="photography-and-video">Photography & Video</a> <a href="/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/what-you-can-do" class="sub-nav__link link hero-link--subnav " data-id="what-you-can-do">What You Can Do</a> <a href="/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/resources" class="sub-nav__link link hero-link--subnav " data-id="resources">Resources</a> </nav> </div> </div> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-12"> <div> <div class="topic-custom"> <div class="topic-custom__content"> <div class="subnav-tab"> <div class="subnav-tab__content subnav-tab__content--active" id=overview> <div class="row"> <div class="subnav-tab__main col-md-12 col-lg-8"> <h2 class="subnav-tab__title">Marine Life Viewing Guidelines</h2> <div class="subnav-tab__main-content"> <div class="tab-meta-data hidden"> <div class="meta-page-heading"></div> <div class="meta-title"></div> <div class="meta-decs">Learn how to properly observe and interact with marine life to ensure the well-being of marine species and their habitat.</div> </div> <div class="wyswyg-edit field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>The public is prohibited from harassing, harming, pursuing, wounding, killing, capturing, or collecting marine species protected by the <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies#endangered-species-act">Endangered Species Act</a> and <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies#marine-mammal-protection-act">Marine Mammal Protection Act</a>. NOAA urges members of the public to observe marine animals from a safe and respectful distance, and do not approach or touch them.</p> <p><span><span><span>Viewing marine animals in their natural habitat can be an exciting experience—watching a group of dolphins leaping across the water, seeing a sea turtle nesting on a beach, or encountering a colony of seals basking in the sun. Although it can be tempting to try to get close to these marine animals, it’s always best to view them from a safe and respectful distance for their safety—and yours. </span></span></span><span><span><span>Learning <span>how to interact with and observe ocean animals can help you make the right decisions when you encounter them by water, land, or air.</span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span>Regulations and guidelines have been developed with specific recommendations and distances for viewing whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, sea lions, sea turtles, and other marine animals. These guidelines and laws can vary by state and by species, so know the rules before you visit our coastal waters.</span></span></span></span></p> <p>The Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act do not provide for permits or other authorizations to view or interact with wild marine mammals and sea turtles, except for specific listed purposes such as scientific research. We maintain as policy that interacting with wild marine life outside of permitted research should not be attempted and viewing marine mammals and sea turtles must be conducted in a manner that does not harass the animals. We do not support, condone, approve, or authorize activities that involve closely approaching, interacting, or attempting to interact with whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, sea lions, and sea turtles in the wild. This includes attempting to swim with, pet, touch, or elicit a reaction from the animals.</p></div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__extra-content"> <hr> <div class="views-element-container"> <div class="horizontal-list__container"> <h2 class="horizontal-list__title horizontal-list__title--small">Featured News</h2> <div class="horizontal-list--2-column"> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/2024-10/Hawaiin-spinner-dolphin-PIFSC-20220524.jpg?h=790be497&amp;itok=_nJ7BKlG" width="540" height="360" alt="Two Hawaiian spinner dolphins swim side-by-side at the surface of the water." loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Feature Story</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/feature-story/caught-waves-cost-getting-too-close-hawaiian-spinner-dolphins" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>Caught in the Waves: The Cost of Getting Too Close to Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins</span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="pacific-islands"> <a class="link link--region link--region-pacific-islands" href="/region/pacific-islands">Pacific Islands</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/2024-06/HawaiianMonkSeal-MomKaiwi-RK96-WithNewPup-NOAAFisheries-PIRO20240501-6.jpg?h=82f92a78&amp;itok=jC3VYfeq" width="540" height="360" alt="A rainbow-shaped wave of water ebbs away into an arc around a Hawaiian monk seal mom laying on a sandy beach as her newborn pup lays next to her resting its head on its mom." loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> <span class="dam_caption">Hawaiian monk seal RK96 (Kaiwi) and her newborn pup at Kaimana Beach, Waikīkī. Credit: NOAA Fisheries (Permit #24359)</span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Feature Story</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/feature-story/monk-seal-pup-debuts-waikiki-lei-day" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>Monk Seal Pup Debuts in Waikīkī on Lei Day</span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="pacific-islands"> <a class="link link--region link--region-pacific-islands" href="/region/pacific-islands">Pacific Islands</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer"> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__container"> <div class="horizontal-list--2-column"> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/2023-03/NOAA_Seal-Week-Banner-Feature_v4-03.png?h=839ae518&amp;itok=Qf8hquCs" width="540" height="360" alt="An animation showing several species of seals in their native habitats with the words "Seal & Sea Lion Week" across the top." loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> <span class="dam_caption">Seal & Sea Lion Week is March 11-15, 2024.</span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Feature Story</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/feature-story/seal-and-sea-lion-week" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>Seal and Sea Lion Week</span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="alaska"> <a class="link link--region link--region-alaska" href="/region/alaska">Alaska</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="pacific-islands"> <a class="link link--region link--region-pacific-islands" href="/region/pacific-islands">Pacific Islands</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="southeast"> <a class="link link--region link--region-southeast" href="/region/southeast">Southeast</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="west-coast"> <a class="link link--region link--region-west-coast" href="/region/west-coast">West Coast</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="national"> <a class="link link--region link--region-national" href="/about-us">National</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/2024-02/whalewatching.png?h=4c682bac&amp;itok=Zfqo0MlV" width="540" height="360" alt="A view of a crowd of people from behind. They are wearing winter gear and holding up cameras to take pictures of whales swimming near the boat." loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> <span class="dam_caption">Spectators spot whales on a WhaleSENSE whale watching trip in Juneau, Alaska. Credit: NOAA Fisheries</span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Video</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/video/what-does-it-mean-have-whale-sense" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>What Does it Mean to Have Whale Sense?</span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="alaska"> <a class="link link--region link--region-alaska" href="/region/alaska">Alaska</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="national"> <a class="link link--region link--region-national" href="/about-us">National</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer horizontal-list__footer--center"> <a href="/news-and-announcements/news?title=&field_topics_vocab_target_id%5B11%5D=11" class="button button--primary">View More News</a> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer horizontal-list__footer--center"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__sidebar col-md-12 col-lg-4"> <div class="info-links"> <h2 class="info-links__title">More Information </h2> <ul class="list--arrow info-links__links"> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/new-england-mid-atlantic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/share-shore-seals-new-england-mid-atlantic">Share the Shore - New England and Mid-Atlantic</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="http://www.westcoast.fisheries.noaa.gov/protected_species/marine_mammals/share_the_shore_resources.html">Share the Shore - West Coast</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="https://seeaspout.org/">See a Spout… Watch Out </a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="https://whalesense.org/">Whale SENSE</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="http://www.bewhalewise.org/">Be Whale Wise</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="http://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/dolphinsmart/">Dolphin SMART</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/national/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/protect-dolphins-campaign">Protect Dolphins Campaign</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="http://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/protect/oceanetiquette.html">Ocean Etiquette Program</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> <div class="row sub-nav__footer-content"> <div class="col-md-12 col-lg-12"> <hr> <div class="quick-fact"> <div class="quick-fact__fact"> <span class="quick-fact__label">FACT</span> <h2 class="quick-fact__title">100 yards for whale watching</h2> <div class="quick-fact__content"><p>Observe whales from a safe distance of at least 100 yards—the length of a football field—unless other species-specific rules apply. For example, federal law requires vessels to remain 100 yards away from humpback whales in Hawaii and Alaska waters, 200 yards from killer whales in Washington State inland waters, and 500 yards away from North Atlantic right whales anywhere in the U.S.</p> </div> </div> <div class="quick-fact__fact"> <span class="quick-fact__label">FACT</span> <h2 class="quick-fact__title">50 yards for sea turtles</h2> <div class="quick-fact__content"><p>Remain a respectful distance from sea turtles. The minimum recommended distance by land or sea is 50 yards—1/2 a football field.</p> </div> </div> <div class="quick-fact__fact"> <span class="quick-fact__label">FACT</span> <h2 class="quick-fact__title">50 yards for seals and sea lions</h2> <div class="quick-fact__content"><p>As a rule of thumb, stay at least 50 yards—1/2 a football field—from seals and sea lions. And be sure to keep your distance from pups. A curious pup might approach on its own, but the mother is likely to be nearby, and may see your interaction as a threat.</p> <p><img alt class="dam-image" data-src="https://ssl.gstatic.com/ui/v1/icons/mail/images/cleardot.gif"></p> </div> </div> <div class="quick-fact__fact"> <span class="quick-fact__label">FACT</span> <h2 class="quick-fact__title">30 minutes maximum viewing time</h2> <div class="quick-fact__content"><p>Limit time observing marine mammals to 30 minutes or less. Your continued presence can cause animals unnecessary stress.</p> </div> </div> <div class="quick-fact__fact"> <span class="quick-fact__label">FACT</span> <h2 class="quick-fact__title">1,000-foot altitude for marine mammal viewing by air</h2> <div class="quick-fact__content"><p>Maintain a 1,000-foot minimum altitude when viewing marine mammals from the air in manned aircraft (e.g., helicopters, airplanes). Federal law requires aircraft to fly no lower than 1,000 feet above humpback whales in Hawaii and 1,500 feet above North Atlantic right whales anywhere in the U.S. Buzzing, hovering, landing, taking off, and taxiing near marine mammals on land or in the water is likely to harass the animals and cause stress. NOAA Fisheries is currently developing national guidance for drone operations (unmanned aircraft systems) for marine mammals and sea turtles. Check back soon.  </p> </div> </div> <a href="#" class="link link--text quick-fact__another-fact"><span class="fa fa-sync-alt"></span>Show me another fact</a> </div> <hr> <div class="horizontal-list__container"> <div class="horizontal-list--2-column"> <div class="horizontal-list__item horizontal-list__item--baseline horizontal-list__item--info-blocks"> <h3>Whales</h3><p>Admiring whales from a distance is the safest and most responsible way to view them in their natural habitat. They are wild, unpredictable animals that can move surprisingly fast. Approaching them too closely endangers you and the whales, and may violate federal law. When boating, stay at least 100 yards away from whales (the length of a football field). Federal law requires vessels to remain 100 yards away from humpback whales in Hawaii and Alaska waters, 200 yards from killer whales in Washington State inland waters, and 500 yards away from North Atlantic right whales anywhere in U.S. waters.</p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/guidelines-and-distances">Learn the guidelines and distances</a></p> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item horizontal-list__item--baseline horizontal-list__item--info-blocks"> <h3>Dolphins and Porpoises</h3><p><span>Viewing dolphins in their natural habitat is an educational and enriching experience if done safely and responsibly. As human interactions with wild dolphins increase, the risk of disturbing or injuring them also increases. Never feed a dolphin—it’s harmful and illegal. Always stay at least 50 yards away from dolphins (1/2 a football field) when viewing from watercraft.<strong> </strong></span>In some locations, the minimum distance may be 100 yards—know before you go.</p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/guidelines-and-distances">Learn the guidelines and distances</a></p> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer"> </div> </div> <hr> <div class="horizontal-list__container"> <div class="horizontal-list--2-column"> <div class="horizontal-list__item horizontal-list__item--baseline horizontal-list__item--info-blocks"> <h3>Sea Turtles</h3><p><span>All sea turtles found in the U.S. are listed under the ESA which makes it illegal to harass, harm, possess, or kill turtles, their eggs, or hatchlings. These animals spend the majority of their lives in the ocean, but come onto beaches to lay their eggs or bask in the sun. When viewing a sea turtle in the water or on a beach, remain at a respectful distance—the minimum recommended is 50 yards (1/2 a football field). </span></p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/guidelines-and-distances">Learn the guidelines and distances</a></p> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item horizontal-list__item--baseline horizontal-list__item--info-blocks"> <h3>Seals and Sea Lions</h3><p><span>Seals and sea lions are ocean animals that spend a portion of their time out of the water on beaches, docks, and jetties to rest, molt, or nurse their pups. Close encounters with people can be harmful and continued disturbances may cause stress, including causing mothers to abandon their pups. You’re too close if an animal starts to stare, fidget, or flee into the water. Even if you don't see these reactions, keep yourself and your pets at least 50 yards away (1/2 a football field). Keep your dog on a leash around seals or sea lions to prevent bites to the dog and the seals or sea lions.</span> And never feed or attempt to feed a seal or sea lion<span>—</span>it’s harmful and illegal.</p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/guidelines-and-distances">Learn the guidelines and distances</a></p> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer"> </div> </div> <hr> <div class="horizontal-list__container"> <div class="horizontal-list--2-column"> <div class="horizontal-list__item horizontal-list__item--baseline horizontal-list__item--info-blocks"> <h3>Corals and Other Protected Species</h3><p>Many corals, fish, and other marine life—invertebrates like <a href="/species/white-abalone">abalone</a> and <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/elkhorn-coral">elkhorn coral</a>—are protected under the ESA which makes it illegal to harm, or kill them. When snorkeling or diving on coral reefs, be careful not to touch, kick, or stand on the corals. And don’t touch other animals—t<span>he slimy coating on fish and many marine invertebrates protects them from infection and is easily rubbed off with a hand, glove, or foot.</span></p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/ocean-etiquette.html">Learn more about good ocean etiquette</a></p> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item horizontal-list__item--baseline horizontal-list__item--info-blocks"> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer"> </div> </div> <hr> <div about="/insight/viewing-marine-life"> <div class="insight-card"> <div class="insight-card__content"> <a href="/insight/viewing-marine-life" class="insight-card__title-link"><h2 class="insight-card__title"> <span>Viewing Marine Life</span> </h2></a> <div class="insight-card__text"><p>Watching marine animals in their natural habitat can be a positive way to promote conservation and respect for animals and their environment.</p></div> <div class="insight-card__footer"> <a href="/insight/viewing-marine-life" class="insight-card__footer-link" id="read_more">Read More</a> </div> </div> <div class="insight-card__image"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/original/s3/dam-migration/750x500-monk-seal-on-beach-istock.jpg?itok=FykL9-OU" alt="On Shipwreck Beach on the south coast of Kauai, Hawaii, an endangered Hawaiian monk seal takes a nap on the beach. The sign in the foreground instructs people to walk around the seal." typeof="foaf:Image" /> </div> </div> </div> <hr> <div class="views-element-container"> <div class="horizontal-list-featured"> <h2 class="horizontal-list-featured__title">Multimedia</h2> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-6 col-xs-12"> <a href="https://videos.fisheries.noaa.gov/"> <div class="horizontal-list-featured__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img src="/themes/custom/noaa_components/images/seals_of_approval.jpg" alt="NOAA Fisheries Video Gallery Default Thumbnail Image"> </div> </div> <span class="horizontal-list-featured__image-icon fa fa-play"></span> </div> </a> <h3 class="horizontal-list-featured__subtitle"><a href="https://videos.fisheries.noaa.gov/">NOAA Fisheries Video Gallery</a></h3> </div> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-6 col-xs-12"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/2024-02/whalewatching.png?h=4c682bac&amp;itok=Zfqo0MlV" width="540" height="360" alt="A view of a crowd of people from behind. They are wearing winter gear and holding up cameras to take pictures of whales swimming near the boat." loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> <span class="dam_caption">Spectators spot whales on a WhaleSENSE whale watching trip in Juneau, Alaska. Credit: NOAA Fisheries</span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Video</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/video/what-does-it-mean-have-whale-sense" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>What Does it Mean to Have Whale Sense?</span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="alaska"> <a class="link link--region link--region-alaska" href="/region/alaska">Alaska</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="national"> <a class="link link--region link--region-national" href="/about-us">National</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-6 col-xs-12"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/dam-migration/750x500-hawaiian-monk-seal-beach-caution-sign-poipu-bch-phillman-noaa.jpg?h=9e499333&amp;itok=JAiVRiYA" width="540" height="360" alt="Hawaiian monk seal resting at Poipu Beach, Kauai with do not approach sign and rope keeping people distanced off from it" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Video</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/video/good-neighbors-how-share-hawaiis-beaches-endangered-monk-seals" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>Good Neighbors: How to Share Hawaiʻi's Beaches with Endangered Monk Seals</span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="pacific-islands"> <a class="link link--region link--region-pacific-islands" href="/region/pacific-islands">Pacific Islands</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-6 col-xs-12"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/dam-migration/hawksbill_turtle_1.png?h=301bee86&amp;itok=UmU--Zi4" width="540" height="360" alt="Hawksbill Turtle_1.png" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Video</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/video/share-shore-sea-turtles-and-other-marine-life-hawaii" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>Share the Shore with Sea Turtles and other Marine Life in Hawaii</span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="pacific-islands"> <a class="link link--region link--region-pacific-islands" href="/region/pacific-islands">Pacific Islands</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__content" id=guidelines-and-distances> <div class="row"> <div class="subnav-tab__main col-md-12 col-lg-8"> <h2 class="subnav-tab__title">Guidelines and Distances</h2> <div class="subnav-tab__main-content"> <div class="wyswyg-edit field field--name-field-t1-content field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field--item"><p>The public is prohibited from harassing, harming, pursuing, wounding, killing, capturing, or collecting marine species protected by the <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies#endangered-species-act">Endangered Species Act</a> and <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies#marine-mammal-protection-act">Marine Mammal Protection Act</a>. NOAA urges members of the public to observe marine animals from a safe and respectful distance, and do not approach or touch them.</p><p><span>Many of the most popularly viewed animals in U.S. coastal waters are protected by the Endangered Species Act. Whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, and sea lions are also protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. These laws help protect marine mammals and sea turtles from harm, including having their natural behaviors interrupted by human actions.</span></p><p><span>Before spending time on or near the ocean, </span>know the guidelines and regulations for viewing these marine protected species in their habitats. <em><strong>Viewing guidelines and laws vary by region, state, and species. Please be familiar with the applicable rules before you visit our coastal waters</strong><span><strong>—see the More Information box.</strong></span></em></p><h3><span>General Viewing Guidelines</span></h3><p dir="ltr">**Do not feed, or attempt to feed, any marine mammals. It’s harmful and illegal.</p><p dir="ltr">**Do not swim with, ride, pet, touch, or attempt to interact with marine mammals or sea turtles in the wild.</p><h4><span>Whales</span></h4><p><span>Remain at least 100 yards away—about the length of a football field unless other rules apply. </span>Federal law requires vessels to remain 100 yards away from humpback whales in Hawaii and Alaska waters, 200 yards from killer whales in Washington State inland waters, and 500 yards away from North Atlantic right whales anywhere in U.S. waters. </p><h4><span>Dolphins and Porpoises</span></h4><p><span>Remain at least 50 yards away—about 1/2 a football field. </span>In some locations, the minimum distance may be 100 yards—know before you go.</p><p><em><strong>In Hawai‘i, federal law prohibits swimming with, approaching, or remaining within 50 yards of spinner dolphins</strong></em>.</p><h4><span>Seals and Sea Lions</span></h4><p><span>For seals and sea lions in the water, or on shore, remain at least 50 yards away—about 1/2 a football field. This includes people and pets.</span></p><h4><span>Sea Turtles</span></h4><p><span>For turtles in the water, or nesting on beaches, remain at least 50 yards away—about 1/2 a football field. This includes people and pets.</span></p><p><em><strong>In Hawai'i the recommended viewing distance for sea turtles is at least 10 feet (3 meters) away—on land and in water.</strong></em></p><h3><span>Guidelines When Viewing At Sea</span></h3><p><span>When viewing wildlife at sea, all boats, jet skis, paddleboards, kayaks, and other watercraft should maintain appropriate distances from marine mammals and sea turtles, while observing appropriate speed limits. General guidelines are provided here, but some species have rules that are specific to them (see section on species-specific laws below).</span></p><h4><span>When Viewing Marine Mammals By Watercraft</span></h4><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Remain at least 100 yards from large whales, and 50 yards from dolphins, porpoises, seals, sea lions, and sea turtles. Federal law requires vessels to remain 100 yards away from humpback whales in Hawaii and Alaska waters, 200 yards from killer whales in Washington State inland waters, and 500 yards away from North Atlantic right whales throughout U.S. waters.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Limit time spent observing individuals and groups of animals to 30 minutes or less.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Do not chase, encircle, or leapfrog animals with any watercraft. Do not trap animals between watercraft or the shore.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Avoid approaching marine mammals when another watercraft is near. Multiple vessels are more likely to disturb marine mammals.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Avoid excessive speed or sudden changes in speed or direction near whales, dolphins, or porpoises.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">When encountering marine mammals, slow down, operate at no-wake speed. Put your engine in neutral when whales approach to pass.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Avoid approaching whales, dolphins, and porpoises when calves are present.  Never put your watercraft between a mother and calf.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Be wary of breaching and flipper-slapping whales that might injure people or watercraft.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Stay clear of light green bubble patches from humpback whales. These are sub-surface bubbles before whales rise to feed at the surface.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Never pursue or follow marine wildlife<span>—</span>any vessel movement should be from the recommended distance and slightly parallel to or from the rear of the animal. If you need to move around marine wildlife, do so from behind. Never approach head-on.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Do not intentionally direct your watercraft or accelerate toward a marine mammal with the intent of creating a pressure wake allowing them to bow or wake-ride.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Slowly leave the area if marine mammals show signs of disturbance. </p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr"><span>When Viewing Sea Turtles By Watercraft</span></h4><ul><li><span>Remain at least 50 yards from sea turtles.</span></li><li><span>Do not feed, or attempt to feed, any marine turtles.</span></li><li><span>Avoid excessive speed or sudden changes in speed or direction near sea turtles.</span></li><li>Do not chase, encircle, or trap sea turtles between watercraft and the shore.</li><li>While viewing a sea turtle slow down, operate at no-wake speed. Put engines in neutral if a sea turtle is observed. Allow it to pass and move away slowly.</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr">Guidelines When Viewing From Air</h3><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Maintain a 1,000-foot minimum altitude when viewing marine mammals from the air in manned aircraft (e.g., helicopters, airplanes). Federal law requires aircraft to fly no lower than 1,000 feet above humpback whales in Hawaii and 1,500 feet above North Atlantic right whales throughout U.S. waters.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Avoid buzzing, hovering, landing, taking off, and taxiing near marine mammals on land or in the water. These activities are likely to harass the animals and cause stress.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Avoid flying drones, or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), near animals. The noise and close proximity of drones can harass the animals and cause stress.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr"><strong>A note on drone/UAS guidance:</strong><br>NOAA Fisheries is currently developing national guidance for drone (or UAS) operations targeting marine mammals and sea turtles.  Until then, NOAA Fisheries reminds the public that dolphins, whales, seals, and sea lions are protected species and harming or disturbing them can be a violation of federal law.<br>It is important to remember that the Federal Aviation Administration provides <a href="https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/">rules for drone operation</a>. In addition, the <a href="https://home.nps.gov/articles/uncrewed-aircraft-in-the-national-parks.htm">U.S. National Park Service has prohibited the use of drones in many National Parks</a>, some of which provide habitat to marine mammals.</p><p dir="ltr">Researchers may use drones/UAS to conduct scientific research on protected species <em><strong>only if </strong></em>the proper permits and authorizations are secured. Learn more about <a href="/national/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/permitting-scientific-research-using-small-unmanned">research permitting</a>.</p><h3><span>Guidelines When Viewing From Land</span></h3><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Remain at least 50 yards away—about 1/2 a football field—from sea turtles nesting or resting on beaches. This includes people and pets.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="http://www.westcoast.fisheries.noaa.gov/protected_species/marine_mammals/share_the_shore_resources.html">Share the shore</a>! For seals and sea lions on shore, people and pets should remain at least 50 yards away—about the length of a football field. Please move away at the first sign of disturbance or agitation. </p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">It is normal for a mother seal to leave her young pup alone on the beach for up to 24 hours while she feeds. You may not see the mother offshore, but if she sees you near her pup, she may not think it’s safe to come back and could abandon her pup.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Give moms and pups space. If you see a seal pup, keep your distance. As a rule of thumb, stay at least 50 yards (150 feet) from seals. A curious seal pup might approach on its own, but the mother is likely to be nearby, and may see your interaction as a threat.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">No selfies with seals!  As tempting as it might be to get that perfect shot of yourself or your child with an adorable seal pup, please do the right thing and leave the seal pup alone. Getting too close to a wild animal puts you—and the animal—at risk.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Do not feed, or attempt to feed, wild seals and sea lions. Seals have powerful jaws, and can leave a lasting impression. When you get too close to a wild animal, you risk stressing or threatening it, and stressed animals are much more likely to act unpredictably.</p></li></ul><h3><span>Species-Specific Laws</span></h3><p><span>Some species require additional protections under the law. The following regulations are legally enforceable.</span></p><h4><span>Killer Whales in Puget Sound, Washington</span></h4><ul><li><a href="http://www.bewhalewise.org/"><span>Be whale wise</span></a><span>—remain 200 yards away (about the length of 2 football fields).</span></li><li>Boaters and watercraft should not leapfrog killer whales. They must stay out of the forward path of whales, at any point within 400 yards.</li></ul><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="http://www.westcoast.fisheries.noaa.gov/protected_species/marine_mammals/killer_whale/esa_status.html"><span>Learn more about killer whales in Puget Sound</span></a></p><h4><span>North Atlantic Right Whales on the U.S. Eastern Seaboard </span></h4><ul><li><span>Remain 500 yards away—about 1/4 mile.</span></li><li><span>Any vessel finding itself within the 500-yard buffer zone created by a surfacing right whale must depart immediately at a safe, slow speed.</span></li><li><span>Maintain a 1,500-foot minimum altitude over North Atlantic right whales (applies to aircraft and drones).</span></li></ul><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="/species/north-atlantic-right-whale">Learn more about North Atlantic right whales</a></p><h4><span>Humpback Whales in Alaska and Hawaii</span></h4><ul><li><span>Remain 100 yards away—about the length of a football field.</span></li><li><span>Federal regulations also restrict close approaches by air for humpback whales in Hawaii—maintain a 1,000-foot minimum altitude.</span></li></ul><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/alaska/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/alaska-marine-mammal-viewing-guidelines-and-regulations">Learn more about viewing humpback whales in Alaska</a></p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/pacific-islands/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/viewing-marine-wildlife-hawaii"><span>Learn more about watching humpback whales in the Pacific Islands/Hawaii</span></a></p><h4><strong>Spinner Dolphins in Hawai‘i</strong></h4><ul><li>Remain at least 50 yards (45 meters) away.</li><li>Federal law prohibits swimming with, approaching, or remaining within 50 yards of spinner dolphins in Hawai‘i.</li></ul><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/six-reasons-why-you-should-not-swim-wild-spinner-dolphins">Learn more about Spinner Dolphins in Hawai‘i</a></p></div> <div class="tab-meta-data hidden"> <div class="meta-page-heading"></div> <div id="Guidelines and Distances-title" class="meta-title">Guidelines and Distances for Viewing Marine Life</div> <div id="Guidelines and Distances-gt" class="meta-decs">Read up on the marine life viewing guidelines and distances to make sure you're observing and interacting with animals safely and respectfully.</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__sidebar col-md-12 col-lg-4"> <div class="info-links"> <h2 class="info-links__title">More Information </h2> <ul class="list--arrow info-links__links"> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/marine-life-distress/frequent-questions-feeding-or-harassing-marine-mammals-wild">Frequent Questions: Feeding or Harassing Marine Mammals in the Wild</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/alaska/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/alaska-marine-mammal-viewing-guidelines-and-regulations">Alaska Viewing Guidelines</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="http://www.westcoast.fisheries.noaa.gov/protected_species/marine_mammals/watching.html">West Coast Viewing Guidelines</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/pacific-islands/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/viewing-marine-wildlife-hawaii">Hawaiʻi Viewing Guidelines</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/new-england-mid-atlantic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/whale-watching-and-wildlife-viewing-new">New England/Mid-Atlantic Viewing Guidelines</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="https://media.fisheries.noaa.gov/dam-migration/noaa_southeast_marinemammal_seaturtle_viewingguidelines_brochure_2014_508.pdf">Southeast Viewing Guidelines in English (PDF, 2 pages)</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="https://media.fisheries.noaa.gov/dam-migration/noaa_southeast_marinemammal_seaturtle_viewingguidelines_brochure_spanish_508.pdf">Southeast Viewing Guidelines in Spanish (PDF, 2 pages)</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__content" id=photography-and-video> <div class="row"> <div class="subnav-tab__main col-md-12 col-lg-8"> <h2 class="subnav-tab__title">Photography and Video</h2> <div class="subnav-tab__main-content"> <div class="wyswyg-edit field field--name-field-t2-content field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field--item"><h3>General Public</h3><p>The public may photograph or film marine mammals and sea turtles as long as the recommended <a href="/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/guidelines-and-distances">guidelines and distances for viewing marine animals</a> are followed and the animals are not disturbed. Do not take “selfies” with marine mammals or sea turtles. It can harass the animals, which is illegal, and can be dangerous to human safety.</p><h3>Professional Photographers and Filmmakers</h3><p>Under the <a href="/topic/laws-policies#marine-mammal-protection-act">Marine Mammal Protection Act</a>, a permit may be issued for photography of marine mammals in the wild for educational or commercial purposes where the photography activities will not exceed Level B harassment. This permit is designed to accommodate professional photographers and filmmakers who have discrete projects and time frames that will result in products such as documentary films or commercial photographs.</p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/node/22706">Learn more about permitting for commercial and educational photography</a></p><p>Note that this permit is not available for photography directed toward, or that may affect, marine mammals listed as endangered or threatened under the <a href="/topic/laws-policies#endangered-species-act">Endangered Species Act</a>.</p><h3>Researchers</h3><p>Many government and private researchers are using small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)—also called drones—to study and observe marine mammals and other protected species. Often this work Includes aerial surveys and identification work. Researchers may only use UAS to conduct scientific research on protected species if the proper permits and authorizations are secured.</p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="/national/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/permitting-scientific-research-using-small-unmanned">Learn more about research permitting</a></p></div> <div class="tab-meta-data hidden"> <div class="meta-page-heading"></div> <div id="Photography and Video-title" class="meta-title">Photography and Video Guidelines When Viewing Marine Life</div> <div id="Photography and Video-gt" class="meta-decs">Taking photos for fun or professional videos for research? Read the photography and video guidelines so you don't disturb or harass marine life. </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__sidebar col-md-12 col-lg-4"> <div class="info-links"> <h2 class="info-links__title">More Information </h2> <ul class="list--arrow info-links__links"> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="http://www.westcoast.fisheries.noaa.gov/protected_species/marine_mammals/share_the_shore_resources.html">Share the Shore: Watch Marine Mammals Responsibly</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="http://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/news/may16/responsible-recreation.html">Responsible Recreation in the New Media Age</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/permit/incidental-take-authorizations-under-marine-mammal-protection-act">Marine Mammal Permits and Authorizations </a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/permit/permits-incidental-taking-endangered-and-threatened-species">Endangered Species Permits</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__content" id=what-you-can-do> <div class="row"> <div class="subnav-tab__main col-md-12 col-lg-8"> <h2 class="subnav-tab__title">What You Can Do</h2> <div class="subnav-tab__main-content"> <div class="wyswyg-edit field field--name-field-t3-content field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field--item"><p><strong>Know the law</strong>—learn the <a href="/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines/guidelines-and-distances">regulations and viewing guidelines</a> before spending time on the ocean and along our coasts. Be<span> aware that guidelines and laws can vary by state and by species.</span></p><p><strong>Report animals that appear injured or sick</strong>. If you think an animal is in trouble—if it’s entangled, stranded, sick, or injured—<a href="/report">please report it</a>. And, keep your distance. These animals are already vulnerable and may be more likely to bite.</p><p><strong>Keep pets away from marine life</strong>. Wild animals can injure and spread diseases to pets, and in turn, pets can harm, injure, disturb, and spread diseases to marine wildlife. If you are traveling with pets, always keep them on a leash and away from areas frequented by marine animals like seals and sea lions.</p><p><strong>Report incidents of people or pets tormenting, disturbing, or attempting to touch</strong> a marine mammal or sea turtle. Contact NOAA’s National Enforcement Hotline at (800) 853-1964.</p><p><strong>Never feed or attempt to feed marine animals</strong>—<strong>it’s illegal</strong>. Marine wildlife, like all wild animals, may bite and inflict injuries to people who try to feed them. Feeding by humans can alter animals’ natural behavior, make them dependent on handouts, and can be harmful to their health.</p><p><strong>Limit your viewing time to 30 minutes</strong>.<em><strong> </strong></em>Time spent observing an individual or group of marine mammals should be limited to 1/2 hour. And when observing animals from a boat, keep in mind that your vessel may not be the only one that approaches the same animal(s) that day. <span>Prolonged exposure to several vessels increases the likelihood that marine mammals will be disturbed.</span></p><p><strong>Cautiously move away from animals if you observe any of the following behaviors</strong>:</p><ul><li>Rapid changes in direction or swimming speed.</li><li>Erratic swimming patterns.</li><li>Escape tactics such as prolonged diving, underwater exhalation, underwater course changes, or rapid swimming at the surface.</li><li>Tail slapping or lateral tail swishing at the surface.</li><li>Female attempting to shield a calf with her body or by her movements.</li><li>Chuffing (loud exhalations) at surface.</li><li>Seals or sea lions lunging, moving away, fleeing or trampling pups.</li></ul><p><strong>Help NOAA Fisheries learn more about whales by reporting</strong> <strong>whale sightings</strong>.</p><p><em><strong>North Atlantic right whales along the East Coast:</strong></em></p><ul><li>From Maine to Virginia, call (866) 755-NOAA.</li><li>From North Carolina to Florida, call (877) WHALE-HELP.</li><li>Or, contact the U.S. Coast Guard via channel 16.</li></ul><p><em><strong>Southern Resident killer whales in Puget Sound, Washington:</strong></em></p><ul><li>Call (866) 672-2638 (866-ORCANET) or (800) 562-8832.</li></ul><p><em><strong>Whales in Alaska:</strong></em></p><ul><li>Report via the Whale Alert <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/whale-alert-reducing-ship-strikes-worldwide/id911035973?mt=8">iPhone/iPad app</a> | <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earthnc.whalealert&hl=en">Android app</a>.</li><li>Or, contact the U.S. Coast Guard via channel 16.</li></ul><p><strong>Lend a hand with trash removal</strong>. Garbage and <a href="https://marinedebris.noaa.gov/">marine debris</a> is a big threat to marine animals. Carry a trash bag with you and pick up litter found along the shore and in the water. Plastic bags, floating debris, and monofilament line pose great risk to marine mammals and sea turtles.</p></div> <div class="tab-meta-data hidden"> <div class="meta-page-heading"></div> <div id="What You Can Do-title" class="meta-title">What You Can Do When Viewing Marine Life</div> <div id="What You Can Do-gt" class="meta-decs">Whether you're going on vacation or live locally to marine life, there's lots you can do to protect the wild animals and their habitat. Learn more!</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__sidebar col-md-12 col-lg-4"> <div class="info-links"> <h2 class="info-links__title">More Information </h2> <ul class="list--arrow info-links__links"> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="https://media.fisheries.noaa.gov/dam-migration/mm_of_alaska_arctic_finalpdf.pdf">U.S. North Pacific and Arctic Marine Mammal Identification Guide </a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/see-id-dolphins-whales/id699127250?mt=8">Apple Devices: See & ID Dolphins and Whales App</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-12 col-lg-12"> <div class="subnav-tab__content" id=resources> <div class="tab-meta-data hidden"> <div class="meta-title">Resources for Viewing Marine Life</div> <div class="meta-decs">Find documents, data and maps, research, outreach and education materials, and other resources about marine life viewing guidelines.</div> </div> <div class="views-element-container"> <div class="horizontal-list__container"> <h2 class="horizontal-row__title--nobold">Documents</h2> <div class="horizontal-list--4-column"> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div about="/resource/document/large-whale-entanglement-photo-documentation-checklist"> <div class="resource-card"> <div class="resource-card__eyebrow">Document</div> <h3 class="resource-card__title"> <a class="resource-card__title-link" href="/resource/document/large-whale-entanglement-photo-documentation-checklist"> <span>Large Whale Entanglement Photo Documentation Checklist</span> </a> </h3> <p class="resource-card__content text--small">West Coast Large Whale Entanglement Response Program</p> <div class="resource-card__region"> <div class="regions resource-card__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="west-coast"> <a class="link link--region link--region-west-coast" href="/region/west-coast">West Coast</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div about="/resource/document/national-report-large-whale-entanglements-confirmed-united-states-2018"> <div class="resource-card"> <div class="resource-card__eyebrow">Document</div> <h3 class="resource-card__title"> <a class="resource-card__title-link" href="/resource/document/national-report-large-whale-entanglements-confirmed-united-states-2018"> <span>National Report on Large Whale Entanglements Confirmed in the United States in 2018</span> </a> </h3> <p class="resource-card__content text--small">This summary report represents a conservative estimate of the number of large whale entanglements…</p> <div class="resource-card__region"> <div class="regions resource-card__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="national"> <a class="link link--region link--region-national" href="/about-us">National</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div about="/resource/document/cited-references-hawaiian-spinner-dolphin-proposed-rule"> <div class="resource-card"> <div class="resource-card__eyebrow">Document</div> <h3 class="resource-card__title"> <a class="resource-card__title-link" href="/resource/document/cited-references-hawaiian-spinner-dolphin-proposed-rule"> <span>Cited References for Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin Proposed Rule</span> </a> </h3> <p class="resource-card__content text--small">A complete list of all references cited in the Hawaiian spinner dolphin proposed rule.</p> <div class="resource-card__region"> <div class="regions resource-card__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="pacific-islands"> <a class="link link--region link--region-pacific-islands" href="/region/pacific-islands">Pacific Islands</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div about="/resource/document/environmental-assessment-regulatory-impact-review-final-regulatory-flexibility"> <div class="resource-card"> <div class="resource-card__eyebrow">Document</div> <h3 class="resource-card__title"> <a class="resource-card__title-link" href="/resource/document/environmental-assessment-regulatory-impact-review-final-regulatory-flexibility"> <span>Environmental Assessment/Regulatory Impact Review/Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis for a Regulatory Amendment to Implement Minimum Approach Distances Around Humpback Whales in Waters off Alaska</span> </a> </h3> <p class="resource-card__content text--small">Analysis of minimum approach distances around humpback whales.</p> <div class="resource-card__region"> <div class="regions resource-card__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="alaska"> <a class="link link--region link--region-alaska" href="/region/alaska">Alaska</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer"> <a href="/resources/documents?title=&topic%5B11%5D=11&field_species_vocab_target_id=&sort_by=created" class="link link--cta">More Documents</a> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer"> </div> </div> </div> <hr> <div class="tab-meta-data hidden"> <div class="meta-title">Resources for Viewing Marine Life</div> <div class="meta-decs">Find documents, data and maps, research, outreach and education materials, and other resources about marine life viewing guidelines.</div> </div> <div class="views-element-container"> <div class="horizontal-list__container"> <h2 class="horizontal-row__title--nobold">Data & Maps</h2> <div class="horizontal-list--4-column"> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div about="/resource/map/harbor-seals-pupping-timeframes-along-west-coast"> <div class="resource-card"> <div class="resource-card__eyebrow">Map</div> <h3 class="resource-card__title"> <a class="resource-card__title-link" href="/resource/map/harbor-seals-pupping-timeframes-along-west-coast"> <span>Harbor Seals Pupping Timeframes Along the West Coast</span> </a> </h3> <div class="resource-card__region"> <div class="regions resource-card__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="west-coast"> <a class="link link--region link--region-west-coast" href="/region/west-coast">West Coast</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer"> <a href="/resources/data-and-maps?title=&combine=All&topic%5B11%5D=11&field_species_vocab_target_id=&sort_by=created" class="link link--cta">More Data and Maps</a> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer"> </div> </div> </div> <hr> <div class="tab-meta-data hidden"> <div class="meta-title">Resources for Viewing Marine Life</div> <div class="meta-decs">Find documents, data and maps, research, outreach and education materials, and other resources about marine life viewing guidelines.</div> </div> <div class="views-element-container"> <div class="horizontal-list__container"> <h2 class="horizontal-row__title--nobold">Research</h2> <div class="horizontal-list--4-column"> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div about="/west-coast/science-data/cetacean-genomes-project-team"> <div class="resource-card"> <div class="resource-card__eyebrow"></div> <h3 class="resource-card__title"> <a class="resource-card__title-link" href="/west-coast/science-data/cetacean-genomes-project-team"> <span>Cetacean Genomes Project Team</span> </a> </h3> <p class="resource-card__content text--small">Meet the scientists of the "Cetacean Genomes Project" which aims to facilitate generation of reference genomes of all cetacean species.</p> <div class="resource-card__region"> <div class="regions resource-card__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="west-coast"> <a class="link link--region link--region-west-coast" href="/region/west-coast">West Coast</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="international"> <a class="link link--region 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Materials</div> <h3 class="resource-card__title"> <a class="resource-card__title-link" href="/resource/educational-materials/2023-share-shore-sea-calendar"> <span>2023 Share the Shore & Sea Calendar</span> </a> </h3> <p class="resource-card__content text--small">The calendar features youth artworks that illustrate how we can share the shore and sea with marine…</p> <div class="resource-card__region"> <div class="regions resource-card__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="pacific-islands"> <a class="link link--region link--region-pacific-islands" href="/region/pacific-islands">Pacific Islands</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div about="/resource/outreach-materials/hawaiian-spinner-dolphin-50-yard-regulatory-decal"> <div class="resource-card"> <div class="resource-card__eyebrow">Outreach Materials</div> <h3 class="resource-card__title"> <a class="resource-card__title-link" 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