Swimming With Seals On The Cape

This summer, vacationers aren't the only ones idling about the beaches and waters of Cape Cod. Grey seals can also be found lazing on the sand and swimming in the water, from Nantucket to Provincetown.

Researchers estimate about 10,000 grey seals live around the Cape and islands these days, a dramatic increase from past decades.

However, the local fishing community is frustrated by what they see as an unwelcome competition. The evidence is clear — when fishermen pull their nets out of the water, they're finding many half-eaten fish. But because seals are a federally protected mammal, there's only so much that can be done.

WBUR's Athena Desai visits Chatham, a favorite "Pinniped" playground, to get the story.