Donal Hickey: Keep Your Distance from Seals — Even the Cutest Pups
Each year, well-intentioned people approach seal pups on the beach, unaware of the harm they may cause. Seal Rescue Ireland (SRI) has issued a timely appeal: do not disturb seals during the grey seal pupping season, which is now underway along the coastline.
Seals spend much of their time on the shore at this time. Human proximity can cause them stress or injury and may even frighten adult seals into abandoning their pups.
Protecting Seal Pups from Human Disturbance
SRI warns that one of the greatest threats to the pups’ survival is human disruption. They advise that if a seal is directly looking at you, you are already too close.
- Keep dogs on leads at all times.
- Maintain a distance of at least 100 metres from seals.
- Never obstruct a seal’s escape route to the sea.
Public Awareness Through Humor
A new 90-second film features Irish comedians Justine Stafford, Karl Spain, and Jamie Sykes, with Spain playing the role of a seal. The film combines humor with an urgent message: observe seals from a distance and let them rest.
“Every year, well-meaning members of the public approach seal pups on the beach, not realising the harm it can cause. This film is a vital reminder that keeping your distance can save a seal’s life.” — Clara De Brun, SRI spokesperson
If you believe a seal needs help, contact Seal Rescue Ireland’s hotline rather than intervening yourself.
Respecting seals' space during pupping season safeguards their wellbeing and improves pups’ chances of survival.