As winter settles over Delaware’s coastline, it also brings some of the area’s most captivating wildlife. 

The Marine Education, Research, and Rehabilitation Institute (MERR) invites residents and visitors to experience the seasonal arrival of gray and harbor seals during its S'mores Seals sessions.

These free, hour-long fireside chats provide an engaging way to learn about the region’s seal colonies, their behaviors, and the efforts to protect them, all while enjoying the waterfront ambiance and warm beverages at Grain on the Rocks in Lewes.

What Are S’more Seals Sessions?

S’more Seals is a weekly educational program held on Saturdays throughout the winter months. 

Participants gather around the fire pit at Grain on the Rocks, where MERR naturalists answer questions about the seals, such as:

• Where do the seals come from, and where are they headed?
• What does it take to care for and protect them?
• How does MERR respond to seal emergencies?
• And much more – open Q&A style at the end

The sessions are designed to be informal and engaging, making them suitable for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the coastal ecosystem. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to view visuals, handle artifacts, and hear firsthand from MERR staff about their vital role in the protection of these marine mammals.

Any cancellations will be posted on MERR’s Facebook page.

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Fireside Treats and Waterfront Views

Grain on the Rocks sets the scene for these cozy chats, offering discounted food and beverages for attendees. 

Special S’mores-inspired hot chocolate and 15% off orders from the restaurant, bar, or coffee shop help make the experience even more enjoyable. 

With the winter chill outside, the combination of warm drinks, a fire pit, and scenic Delaware Bay views makes S’more Seals a unique way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

MERR emphasizes that attendees do not need to participate in the accompanying MERR Seal Tours aboard Cape Water Tours to join the fireside sessions, though the talks are scheduled immediately after these tours.

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A Focus on Seal Conservation

The educational sessions highlight the importance of protecting local seal populations during their winter stay. 

Seals spend about half their lives on land, and resting is critical to their survival. Female seals, for example, may go weeks without eating while nursing their pups. 

Approaching seals too closely can stress them, causing them to retreat into the water prematurely. 

MERR advises the public to maintain a distance of at least 150 feet if encountering a seal on the beach, and to call 302-228-5029 for assistance.

Through the S’more Seals program, participants gain insight into the daily operations of MERR, including their rescue, research, and rehabilitation efforts. 

These fireside chats also offer a broader understanding of how the public can support marine conservation and protect the delicate ecosystem along Delaware’s shores.

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About MERR

The Marine Education, Research, and Rehabilitation Institute, Inc. is a non-profit organization committed to the conservation of marine mammals and sea turtles. 

Authorized by the National Marine Fisheries Service and the State of Delaware, MERR serves as the official stranding response organization for marine mammals and sea turtles in the region.

MERR’s work includes:

• Rescue: Responding 24/7 to stranded or injured marine animals, providing veterinary care, and ensuring recovery whenever possible.
• Research: Conducting necropsies and data collection to inform conservation strategies for threatened and endangered species.
• Education: Hosting programs like S’more Seals to foster public awareness and stewardship for marine life and ocean habitats.

There is so much value in these informal chats, with the picturesque setting and the winter presence of seals offer a rare chance to connect to the public and educate them about an important & beautiful marine animal while sharing MERR’s mission.

Other ways to support the organization & their efforts can be found on their website. 

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Plan Your Visit

S’more Seals sessions are held outdoors and are subject to change based on weather. 

Here are the scheduled S’more Seals sessions for this season:

• 01/17 at 4:50 pm 
• 01/31 at 4:50 pm
• 02/14 at 3:20 pm
• 02/21 at 5:50 pm
• 02/28 at 3:20 pm
• 03/07 at 6:20 pm
• 03/14 at 3:20 pm
• 03/21 at 6:20 pm
• 03/28 at 2:50 pm
• 04/04 at 7:20 pm

Families are encouraged to bundle up, enjoy the cozy fireside setting, and experience an educational adventure with Delaware’s resident seals.

Don’t miss this chance to learn about local marine life while enjoying the beauty of Lewes and the Delaware Bay.

Check out the S’more Seals schedule, plan your visit, and discover how you can be part of conserving these incredible animals.

Don’t forget to keep following the blog for more events and all things happening around Coastal Delaware!