A seal stopped for a rest in Kitty Hawk this week. [Photo by Outer Banks - Brindley Beach]

Its that time of year! Several young seals have showed up for a rest this week on the beaches of Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, Duck in Corolla. And while they may look injured, theyre usually fine. Just resting.

This seal rested in the dunes in Kitty Hawk for several days the week of Jan. 4. [Kari Pugh photo]Seals are common winter tourists along local beaches, with at least a dozen taking a break on the Outer Banks since December. After leaving their mothers, young seals venture outside of northern territories in search of food, and often stop here to sun and sleep.

Look who decided to visit one of our ocean front homes today.

Dont worry, these seals often come up to rest and take a brief vacation during their winter travels.

Posted by Outer Banks Brindley Beach onTuesday, January 5, 2021

The OBX Marine Mammal Stranding Network offers the following tips for those who see a resting seal:

Report seal sightings to the OBX Stranding Response Team at 252-455-9654.

Have photos of a seal you sighted on our beaches? Share with the MMSN, adding date, location and your name. Email to [emailprotected]

Read more here:

Winter visitors: Seals popping up on beaches along the Outer Banks - OBXToday.com