Wildlife Welfare

Wild Common Seal Welfare

Common (harbour) seals are declining in some UK areas. Understanding welfare threats including entanglement, disease, and disturbance helps guide protection efforts.

Key Facts

Common seal populations have declined in some Scottish and Orkney populations
Phocine distemper virus has caused mass mortality events in past decades
Fishing gear entanglement causes injury and drowning in some individuals
Disturbance at haul-out sites during pupping season affects pup survival
Common seals are protected under the Conservation of Seals Act 1970

Welfare Considerations

Common seal welfare is affected by disease, entanglement, and disturbance. Population monitoring enables early warning of disease outbreaks, while haul-out protection reduces disturbance to vulnerable pups.

What You Can Do

Maintain appropriate distance from seal haul-out sites, especially during pupping
Report injured or entangled seals to BDMLR (British Divers Marine Life Rescue)
Support marine plastic pollution reduction to reduce entanglement risk
Learn about common seal population trends and welfare threats