Give Seals Space: Why We Must Do More to Protect the UK's Seals

The UK is one of the most important places in the world for seals. Our coastline is home to almost 40% of the world's grey seals and around 30% of the European population of common seals, giving us a global responsibility to protect these remarkable marine mammals.

Yet, despite their importance, seals still lack legal protection from intentional or reckless disturbance.

Disturbance Has Real Consequences

Seals spend much of their time hauled out on beaches, rocks and sandbanks. They aren't simply "sunbathing" - they are resting, digesting food, conserving energy, giving birth, nursing pups or moulting. Every minute spent hauled out is essential for their survival.

When people get too close, seals often become alert, lift their heads, or move towards the water. If the disturbance continues, they may panic and stampede into the sea. This sudden escape can lead to serious injuries, mothers becoming separated from their pups, abandoned breeding sites and unnecessary stress that uses up precious energy reserves.

Sadly, disturbance comes from many sources, including people approaching on foot, dogs, boats, paddleboards, drones and even low-flying aircraft.

Small Actions Make a Big Difference

The good news is that preventing disturbance is simple.

Whether you're walking the coast, kayaking, boating or enjoying wildlife watching, giving seals plenty of space allows them to carry on their natural behaviour undisturbed.

Remember:

• Keep well away from hauled-out seals.

• Keep dogs under close control and on a lead where seals may be present.

• Never attempt to touch, feed or encourage seals to interact with you.

• If a seal looks directly at you or moves towards the water, you're too close—quietly move away.

• Use binoculars or a camera zoom to enjoy incredible views without disturbing wildlife.

By respecting their space, we can help ensure seals remain healthy and wild.

Support the Give Seals Space Campaign

The Seal Alliance's Give Seals Space campaign is calling on the UK Government to introduce stronger legal protection for grey and common seals from intentional and reckless disturbance.

Current legislation does not go far enough to protect seals from unnecessary disturbance, despite the growing pressures from increasing coastal recreation. By strengthening the law, we can better safeguard seals during the most vulnerable stages of their lives and help ensure future generations can continue to enjoy seeing these incredible animals in the wild.

Every signature sends a clear message that people care about protecting our native seals.

Please support the campaign by signing the Give Seals Space petition and sharing it with your family and friends.

Together, we can help give seals the protection - and the space - they deserve.