NEWPORT, Ore. — A wayward seal turned heads and halted traffic concerns along Oregon’s scenic Highway 101 this weekend when it waddled a bit too far from the waves.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Saturday to reports of the adventurous pinniped near Milepost 146, where the flippered visitor was spotted moving along the roadway shoulder.

Worried about the safety of both the seal and passing drivers, deputies quickly sprang into action, using a rope as an impromptu leash to keep their blubbery buddy from venturing into traffic.

With help from alert community members, authorities called in experts from the nearby Oregon Coast Aquarium. A staff member arrived promptly to safely secure the seal and guide it back to its ocean home.

The sheriff’s office thanked the Oregon State Police and aquarium team for their swift assistance, wishing the “new pinniped pal” smooth sailing on its journey ahead.

While Highway 101 offers stunning coastal views teeming with wildlife, officials reminded drivers to stay vigilant for deer, elk, birds — and the occasional seal seeking a roadside adventure.

In case of wildlife encounters or collisions, authorities provided contact numbers for Oregon State Police, local city departments and the sheriff’s office.

• If you are on a State Highway, in a State Park, on the beaches, or if the animal is protected under Oregon Revised Statute (such as anything hunted or fished in Lincoln County), please contact the Oregon State Police at 541-265-5353 or dial *677 from a mobile phone.
• If you’re in the cities of Lincoln City, Newport, or Toledo; Contact the city police department:

  * Lincoln City Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency) – 541-994-3636

  * Newport Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency – 541-574-5807

  * Toledo Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency) – 541-336-5555

• If you’re in any other part of Lincoln County or if the animal involved is a pet or livestock; Contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0777