Holidaymakers in the Polish seaside resort of Mielno got an unexpected surprise on Saturday when a young seal joined them on their standup paddleboard. The marine mammal, which appeared to be a juvenile gray seal, showed no signs of trepidation as it accosted the Baltic coast vacationers, demanding to be stroked and scratched, Polish media reported. Although the brief encounter with nature attracted the attention of beachgoers, lifeguards warned against getting too close to such animals. The Volunteer Water Rescue Service advised the public to keep a safe distance from seals and other wildlife as they can scratch or bite and may carry diseases.
