Seal How

The seals at Rome Point are comfortable and happy with the haul-out site because it is far enough from shore to allow them to feel safe, even in the presence of people on land. The haul-out rocks are over three hundred yards from shore; at that distance, the seals are not readily identifiable to the human eye. It is not possible to stress enough the importance of bringing a spotting scope or binoculars with you on a trip to see the seals. Without binoculars or a scope, you are sure to be disappointed that the seals are so far away.

Guide to Sport Optics

    The best way to observe the seals is to use a spotting scope or low-magnification astronomical telescope. I use a 20x to 60x variable magnification spotting scope; using a scope transforms seal-watching into a truly amazing experience. The close-up photographs on this site were all taken from Rome Point through my scope with a digital camera, so the pictures you see here are the typical views that one sees when observing seals through a scope. The view through the scope is actually more clear and well focused than the photographs; with a scope, the individual personalities and subtle behaviors of the seals are brought to life in a most compelling and captivating way.

    If at all possible, buy a scope, borrow a scope, or invite a friend who has a scope to come with you on your seal watching adventure. A spotting scope, or even a cheap astronomical telescope is much better than binoculars for seal watching at Rome Point. I have found that children have an easier time dealing with a scope on a tripod than they do with more cumbersome binoculars. If there is anyone at Rome Point who is using a scope, I recommend politely asking if you can take a look; most wildlife watchers will be glad to share.

    Binoculars provide good views of the seals, so I always bring my 10x magnification binoculars along on my seal hikes. For seal watching at Rome Point, 10x50 or 10x42 binoculars would be the best choice. 8x magnification or compact binoculars do not have sufficient magnification or brightness for good seal viewing at this distance, although any binoculars are better than the un-aided eye. Binoculars are especially good for observing seals that are swimming or porpoising; look for white splashes in the water as a clue for locating active, swimming seals.

    A camera with a zoom lens is also better than nothing but you will not get close-up shots without a scope or a very long camera lens. A cloudy day or evening light is preferred for high-quality photography, as the optical distortion caused by bright sunlight reflecting off the water will be greatly reduced. At Rome Point, morning light on a sunny day will present challenges to photographers due to glare and back lighting.

Seal Watching Tips and Etiquette

Check out the signpost and the plaque at the trailhead for a map and information about the John H. Chafee Nature Preserve.
When in the parking area or especially if parked along busy Route 1A, be sure to keep small children and pets under close control while you prepare for your hike.
Deer ticks are present in the preserve and the threat of contracting a tick-borne illness should not be taken lightly. If you choose to explore the woodland trails, you are advised to stay on the trail and to take adequate tick protection precautions.
Trail conditions can sometimes be poor due to ice, snow, or mud; ice is often a problem after snow has gone through a thaw/freeze cycle. A walking staff or ski poles can be very helpful when the trail ices up. If the trail is in bad shape, you may wish to consider returning another day rather than risking an injury from a fall on the ice.
To avoid disturbing the seals, please approach Rome Point calmly and quietly. Harbor seals are sensitive to human activity; this seems to be especially true when large numbers of seals are hauled-out on the rocks.
Dogs are welcome at Rome Point, bring your dog along for a healthy exercise walk. Please pick up after your dog.
Please keep dogs under control at all times. Bear in mind as you approach Rome Point that your dog may encounter other dogs, small children, bicycles, or horses and be prepared to restrain your pet accordingly.
Please do not play fetch with your dog on the beach at Rome Point if seals are present; move south down the beach or around the back to Bissel Cove to play with your dog.
The seals are federally protected marine mammals. Willfully disturbing or harassing seals is a violation of federal law.
Choose a location on the shore that is out of the wind for comfortable seal viewing; sometimes moving only a few yards can make the time spent watching seals much more enjoyable.
Please mind your cell-phone manners if you are within close proximity to other groups of seal watchers.
Maintain close supervision over young children who are using sport optics on a sunny day; even a quick glimpse of the sun through binoculars may cause a serious eye injury.