21/08/2026
Let’s get seal-rious! 🦭
Now, you might be thinking, ‘but that’s not a dolphin, or even a cetacean!’ And you’d be right! But as marine mammals that we're lucky enough to share our coastline with, seals deserve just as much respect.
Here in Sussex, we’re visited by both grey seals and harbour seals. Recently, there have been increased sightings, especially around Beachy Head.
The good news is that it’s absolutely possible to enjoy seeing seals while keeping your distance and, most importantly, respecting these wild animals.
Here are a few top tips for a respectful encounter:
🦭 Stay at least 100 metres away - preferably even further if you can. Disturbing a seal can have a serious impact on its health and welfare, particularly for younger individuals. Seals need to be able to rest on land, and repeated disturbance can reduce their chances of survival.
🦭 Shh! Keep noise to a minimum. Sudden noises can startle seals and cause them to flee. In some cases, disturbances can trigger a stampede, which can result in injuries or fatalities, especially among young seals. Ideally, a seal shouldn’t be able to see or hear you.
🦭 Keep your dog on a lead. If you're walking in an area where seals have been sighted, always keep your dog close and on a lead.
Spotting wildlife can be exciting and something to celebrate. By following these simple steps, you're helping to ensure seals can rest safely and continue returning to our coastline. Respect is key! 🦭💙
