Grey seals are among the UK's most charismatic marine mammals, facing welfare challenges from entanglement, pollution, and human disturbance.
Grey seals that become entangled in lost or discarded fishing gear suffer progressive constriction injuries that cause chronic pain, impaired movement, and eventual death if not freed. Seals found with monofilament line or netting embedded in their necks are a common presentation for wildlife rescue organizations. Human disturbance at pupping beaches, including people and dogs approaching too closely, causes mothers to flee temporarily, which risks pup hypothermia and permanent separation. Maintaining appropriate distances at seal haul-out sites, supporting ghost gear removal, and reducing fishing line waste are practical contributions to seal welfare.