Grey seal colonies in the UK and Ireland support one of the largest populations globally, but pup welfare is significantly affected by human disturbance, particularly during breeding season.
Grey seal pups are born white and helpless, depending entirely on their mothers for 3 weeks of intensive suckling. Disturbance by humans, dogs, and drones causes mothers to abandon pups, often permanently. Separated pups starve rapidly and suffer prolonged distress before death. Dog-related disturbance at seal beaches is a major problem even when owners believe their dog is controlled. Drone flights can panic entire colonies, causing pup trampling and maternal separation. Entanglement in fishing gear and plastic debris kills both adults and pups. The management of growing seal populations in relation to salmon fisheries creates pressure for culling that raises significant welfare and ethical questions.