'Wild Grey Seal' on the beach at Firestone Bay, Plymouth

Today we met with Plymouth Sounds National Marine park Marine manager and coastal rangers, to discuss Firestone Bay's most recent visitor named ‘Wild Grey Seal’. Whilst this beautiful girl may attract lots of attention, we kindly ask that you read the attached information. This young seal is suspected to be moulting. During the moulting season, seals need to spend more time on land with blood near to the surface of their skin to grow their new fur. Entering the sea during the moult shuts down the surface blood vessels, which slows down the fur growth, prolonging the moult and reducing energy levels further. 

If hauled out seals are approached at close range , this can cause:

We do understand that local residents enjoy spending time at the beach. Whether that be wild swimming, water sports or walking your dog. But may we ask everyone to be mindful, follow the guidance, and spread the word. Keep your dog on the lead and avoid the beach altogether if Wild Grey Seal is hauled out. 

Lets all help to look after our wildlife. 

For further information marine-southwest@naturalengland.org.uk