Wildlife Welfare

Wild Common Seal UK Welfare

Common seals in UK waters face welfare threats from entanglement, disease, disturbance, and competition with fishing for prey.

Key Facts

UK common seal populations declined significantly following phocine distemper virus outbreaks
Entanglement in fishing gear and marine debris causes drowning and injury in common seals
Haul-out disturbance by humans and dogs causes stampedes and cub separation
Grey seal-common seal competition at haul-out sites creates stress and displacement
Seasonal pupping occurs on sandbanks and beaches requiring disturbance-free zones

Welfare Considerations

Common seal welfare is influenced by multiple human-related threats that can each be reduced through targeted action. Reducing disturbance at haul-out and pupping sites is the most direct welfare intervention available to members of the public.

What You Can Do

Maintain at least 100m distance from seal haul-out sites
Keep dogs away from beaches used by seals, especially during pupping season
Support the British Divers Marine Life Rescue for injured seal response