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A Grey Seal : Photo by kind permission of Wikipedia |
On Monday 9th November we were fortunate enough to have a rare visitor to Kimmeridge Bay. A keen eyed Range Warden was first to spot its head peering out of the water in the middle of the bay and once closer we were albe to confirm it was a Grey Seal (Halichoerus grypus). We watched as the solitary marine mammal frequently displayed a number of behavoural displays. The seal 'bottled' in an upright position, dived down swimming short distances before returning for air and finally returned with a large Ballan wrasse in its mouth. We then watched fascinated, as it then devoured it's fresh fish whilst resting on its back in the water.
Grey seals are the largest to be found on our coasts, with male seals (bulls) growing up to 3m long. The only other species of seal we have within our waters are common seals. These are best referred to as harbour seals as these are sadly, no longer common. Facially, grey seals look similar to dogs with long muzzles and can be just as curious. However, despite their 'cute' appearance these wild animals are extremely aggressive and should not be approached. Seals carry a number of harmful diseases which can be transferred to humans, mainly through bites!
Seals are commonly found around most of the UK's harbours, estuaries, coves, sandbanks and beaches and are often mistaken for dead whilst sleeping in unusual places! Some of the seal's biggest problems are humans. Commercial fishing plays it's part in accidental capture and people often mistake unaccompanied seal pups in remote locations, as abandoned. More often than not, these pups are just awaiting for mother to return from hunting. Human interference can sometimes prevent it's mother from returning at all. Please keep a safe distance from seals and enjoy the sighting |
