Wildlife Welfare

Wild Common Seal Welfare and Disturbance

Common seals at UK haul-out sites face welfare risks from human disturbance, particularly during the sensitive pupping and moulting seasons.

Key Facts

Common seals give birth in early summer and moult in late summer at traditional haul-out sites
Human disturbance causes seals to enter the water unnecessarily, burning energy and separating pups from mothers
Motorised boat approaches cause more disturbance than kayaks or stand-up paddleboards
Drone use near seal haul-out sites is disruptive and increasingly reported
The UK common seal population has declined in some areas, making disturbance welfare more serious

Welfare Considerations

Common seal welfare at haul-out sites is directly affected by visitor behaviour. Unnecessary disturbance forces seals into cold water, burns energy that should go toward pup rearing or moulting, and can separate pups from nursing mothers. The cumulative effect of repeated disturbance events at popular sites creates chronic stress that compounds individual welfare harms. Clear visitor guidance and effective enforcement of approach restrictions protect seal welfare.

What You Can Do

Maintain appropriate distance from common seal haul-outs - minimum 100 metres on land
Avoid drone use near seal colonies and report irresponsible behaviour
Support Wildlife Trust campaigns for seal haul-out protection and visitor guidance