Wildlife

Seal Welfare: Fishery Conflicts and Legal Killing

Grey and common seals face legal and illegal killing due to fishery conflicts despite protected status.

Key Facts

Grey and common seals are protected under the Conservation of Seals Act 1970 but can be killed for fishery protection
Around 2,000 seals are shot legally near fish farms and fisheries annually in Scotland
Seal shooting is controversial as seals killed are often replaced by others not reducing predation
Seals entangled in fishing gear drown causing welfare harm
UK grey seal population of around 120,000 is the largest in Europe

Welfare Considerations

Seals shot for fishery protection may not be killed cleanly suffering from non-fatal wounds. Animals shot in water may dive and die slowly from injuries without being recovered. Pups orphaned by shooting of nursing mothers may starve. The effectiveness of lethal control is questionable as shooting individual seals does not deter others. Non-lethal deterrents including acoustic devices and physical barriers are available alternatives but require investment.

What You Can Do

Support campaigns for stronger protection of seals from lethal fishery control
Advocate for mandatory use of non-lethal deterrents before lethal action is permitted
Support BDMLRs seal rescue and entanglement response work
Report injured or entangled seals to BDMLR or British Divers Marine Life Rescue
Engage with the Scottish Government consultation on seal management policies