Wild Seal Haul-Out Disturbance Welfare

Grey and harbour seals haul out on beaches and rocks for essential physiological functions. Human disturbance causes stampedes that injure and separate mothers from pups.

Key Facts

Grey seal pups cannot swim at birth and rely on extended beach nursing for fat and immune development
Disturbance-induced stampede causes pup trampling, crushing, and maternal separation with survival consequences
Minimum approach distances of 100 meters are recommended by SCOS and wildlife authorities
Drone disturbance is an emerging welfare problem causing stampedes invisible to operators
UK grey seal colony disturbance affects pupping success at major sites including Donna Nook and Horsey

Welfare Considerations

Seal haul-out disturbance causes acute welfare harm through stampede injury and chronic welfare harm through disrupted nursing. Pups separated from mothers on beaches face starvation in the days after separation. The cumulative effect of visitor disturbance across a pupping season can significantly reduce pup survival rates at major colonies. Simple behavioral rules for beach visitors dramatically reduce this preventable harm.

What You Can Do

Maintain minimum 100-metre distance from seals on beaches at all times
Never use drones near seal haul-out sites including pupping beaches
Keep dogs on leads and away from seal beaches throughout pupping season
Share seal disturbance guidance with others before visiting known seal colony sites