Conservation and welfare of common seals in UK harbours and estuaries.
Key Facts
Common seals are more numerous in Scotland than England and Wales
Phocine distemper virus outbreaks have caused significant mortality events
Pups are born in June and can swim within hours of birth
Common seals haul out on sandbanks and rocks for rest and thermoregulation
UK populations declined significantly following the 2002 PDV outbreak
Welfare Considerations
Common seals face welfare risks from disease outbreaks, entanglement, and disturbance at haul-out sites, requiring legal protection and public education.
What You Can Do
Keep a respectful distance from common seal haul-out sites
Report sick or injured seals to BDMLR
Support common seal population monitoring through Wildlife Trusts