Elephant seals spotted along the Brazilian coast

Elephant seals have been spotted along various stretches of the Brazilian coast, drawing attention from locals and researchers. In Rio de Janeiro, an elephant seal was seen resting on the sands of Copacabana. The animal, which appears healthy, has been making a tour of the Rio coastline, having previously been sighted in Recreio dos Bandeirantes, Joatinga, São Conrado, and Niterói.

Biologists suggest the animal may have originated from the Valdes Peninsula in Argentina, traveling long distances due to ocean currents during feeding periods. Authorities have advised the public to maintain distance and avoid touching or feeding the animal.

In the state of Paraná, an adult female southern elephant seal was also recorded resting at Balneário Brejatuba in Guaratuba. Researchers from the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR) identified the individual through body markings, noting it was the same female previously spotted in São Francisco do Sul, Santa Catarina. The animal was monitored by a multidisciplinary team and eventually returned to the sea.