Best seal-spotting locations in the UK
- Orkney Islands, Scotland.
- Blakeney, Norfolk.
- Various locations along the coast, West Cornwall.
- Donna Nook, Lincolnshire.
- Skomer Island, Pembrokeshire.
- Monach Isles in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland.
- Farne Islands, Northumberland.
- Horsey Gap, Norfolk.
Where are the seals in the UK?
Common seals are found all around the coastline of the British Isles with the highest populations around Scotland and along the eastern coast of England. They are also found throughout the colder waters of Northern Europe.
Where is the best place to see seals in the UK?
The best place to see seals is Mutton Cove at Godrevy Point in West Cornwall. At low tide, a resident colony of grey seals can be viewed in this protected sheltered bay from the cliff tops. During January it’s not uncommon to see around 100 seals hauled out on the sand and rocky outcrops below.
Are there any seals in the UK?
1. Seals. The UK is home to two species of native seal – the grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) and common seal (Phoca vitulina). Both species, as well as others, are protected in the UK (see below).
When can you see seals in the UK?
See them for yourself
The pupping season for grey seals starts as early as August in Cornwall, then September-October in Wales and November-December in Scotland and down the East coast of England.
Where can I swim with seals in the UK?
Swim the the Seals at Lundy Island from Ilfracombe in North Devon.
What time do seals come to shore?
Non-Pupping Season (May 16 to December 14)
When it’s hot and sunny, the seals typically leave the beach each morning by 7:00 or 8:00am at the latest. They’ll gradually return to the sand in the late afternoon or early evening, once the shade and/or tide has cooled off the sand.
Where is the beach with all the seals?
Elephant Seals haul out on beaches near San Simeon year round, as they go through different phases in their life cycle. In peak times, there are up to 17,000 animals on the San simeon shores.
What time of year are seals in Cornwall?
Please note that in Cornwall the seal pupping season is usually August to December with the peak months in October and November, but in the last two years, the pupping season appears to have become a lot shorter and more intense with most pups being born in late Sep and Oct.
Is it OK to swim with seals?
Can you swim with Seals? Of course! With respect for the seals and their environment, it is a truly special experience to witness the way seals move underwater. While pups love swimming and playing with divers and snorkelers, it is important to keep a respectful distance from adult sea lions.
Can you touch a seal UK?
Unless the seal is clearly injured or in distress, just give them lots of space. If you think the seal needs help, please contact British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) on 01825 765546. Seals can give a nasty bite when trying to defend themselves, so never get too close or attempt to move a seal yourself.
Do UK seals bite?
As seals are built for speed and agility in the water, they are slow to escape on land which leaves them vulnerable to attacks and explains why they will bite when provoked. With strong jaws and sharp teeth, they can cause serious injury.
What to do if you see a seal on the beach?
A healthy seal should be left alone. Do not approach a seal, or allow children or dogs near it. Seals are wild animals and although they look cute, they will defend themselves aggressively if necessary. After stormy weather and / or high tides, seals will haul out on beaches to rest and regain their strength.
What beach in Norfolk has seals?
Blakeney Point and Morston
The Point is a shingle spit managed by the National Trust and is a top spot to see the common and grey seals any time during the year. Seal watching trips usually last for one hour and run daily from Morston and Blakeney on the high tide.
Which beach in Norfolk Can you see seals?
During the winter months you can see them at Blakeney and Horsey. These are the best places to visit the seals in Norfolk. During the summer months you can see them via a boat trip at Hunstanton and Blakeney. During the winter months you can see them at Blakeney and Horsey.
Can you see seals in Seaside or?
Popular Oregon Coast attractions including the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Seaside Aquarium and Sea Lion Caves offer can’t miss encounters with pinnipeds. The Oregon Coast Aquarium has a 90,000 gallon exhibit featuring Harbor Seals and California Sea Lions with viewing areas above and below the surface of the water.
What to do if a seal approaches you when swimming?
Always let seals make the first move – let them approach you. Sit back, wait quietly and observe. Aim to stay calm and move slowly to avoid spooking the seals and provoking a startled response. Be confident that seals are usually gentle creatures unless they feel threatened.
Do seal bites hurt?
“No matter how cuddly the seals may look, when they bite it does hurt and there is a big chance of infection. They have microorganisms on their skin that can enter our bodies, too.”
Where is the largest seal colony in the UK?
Blakeney Point National Nature Reserve
Blakeney Point, home to England’s largest grey seal colony, is celebrating another successful, record-breaking seal pupping season. Blakeney Point National Nature Reserve has been in the care of the National Trust since 1912.
How far from shore do seals swim?
The shelf drops off into deeper water, an area called the continental margin, where the seals hunt for a variety of prey. Their feeding areas can be as far as 3,000 miles (5,000 km) from their rookery on the Central Coast of California.
Are sea lions friendly?
Sea lions are typically not dangerous. They are not aggressive and generally keep to themselves, but as a 600 lbs wild animal they do need to be respected. There have been incidents when sea lions have injured humans.