New Bedford Seal Spotted Relaxing on Beach [VIDEO]

A surprise visitor soaked up the sunshine along the New Bedford shoreline this week, and for one SouthCoast walker, it turned an already beautiful day into something unforgettable.

On Tuesday, March 10, local resident Jarred Seth spotted something many people only see from a distance in the harbor: a seal lounging right on the sand.

Like many New Bedford residents, Seth had seen seals bobbing their heads in the water plenty of times, but seeing one comfortably stretched out on the beach was a whole different experience.

A Sunny Surprise at West Beach

Seth was enjoying the warm weather with a walk along the paved path near West Beach when the unexpected sight caught his attention.

“There was a sign near that spot talking about it, so I guess those seals have been using that small bank to sunbathe and it’s illegal to disturb them,” he said.

The seal appeared perfectly content, soaking in the sunshine just like the many SouthCoast residents who were out enjoying the unusually gorgeous March day.

Just Relaxing, Nothing to Worry About

According to Seth, the seal wasn’t injured or in distress. It simply appeared to be resting on the sand and enjoying the warm weather.

Encounters like this are becoming more common along the coastline as seals occasionally haul themselves onto quiet beaches to rest and warm up in the sun.

READ MORE: Watch Pair of Seals Playing in New Bedford Harbor

For Seth, the moment felt bigger than just a wildlife sighting.

“I feel like I changed my whole outlook on life today because of the weather,” he said.

Sometimes all it takes is a sunny day, a quiet walk by the water, and a sunbathing seal to remind us just how beautiful nature can be.