Viewing marine animals in their natural habitat can be an exciting experience — watching whales breach, 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. Learning how to interact with and observe ocean animals can help you make the right decisions when you encounter them by water, land or air.
Consider these 6 Golden Rules for viewing marine life safely and responsibly:
![Whale watchers get a glimpse of a humpback. (Image credit: Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society) Whale watchers get a glimpse of a humpback.](/sites/default/files/styles/landscape_width_1275/public/legacy/image/2019/Jun/PHOTO-Whale%20watchers%20get%20a%20glimpse%20of%20a%20humpback-%20credit%20Whale%20and%20Dolphin%20Conservation%20Society-500x500-square.jpg?itok=dyO4WTGq)
Whale watchers get a glimpse of a humpback. (Image credit: Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society)