Wildlife

Harbour Seal Welfare at Haul-out Sites

Harbour seals use haul-out sites for resting, thermoregulation and socialising, and disturbance at these sites causes repeated energetic costs and stress responses that can affect breeding success.

Key Facts

UK harbour seal populations declined 40% in some areas between 2001 and 2006
Haul-out site disturbance causes repeated flight responses that burn critical energy reserves
Pups born in June are mobile from birth but vulnerable to separation from mothers
Boat traffic, drone use and wildlife tourism are leading sources of haul-out disturbance

Welfare Considerations

Harbour seal welfare at haul-out sites is significantly affected by human disturbance. Even brief flight responses require seals to re-haul after returning, burning energy and interrupting thermoregulation. Cumulative disturbance across a season can affect body condition and breeding success. Voluntary exclusion zones and codes of conduct have improved welfare outcomes at key sites.

What You Can Do

Maintain at least 100m distance from seal haul-out sites on water and on shore
Never fly drones over seal haul-out sites, particularly during pupping season
Support SNH and JNCC guidance on marine wildlife disturbance around seals
Report disturbance incidents at protected haul-out sites to Scottish Natural Heritage or Natural England