We were today years old when we found out Autumn is Grey Seal Pupping Season.
Luckily, Seal Rescue Ireland know their stuff and have advice for anyone who comes across a wee fluffy pup as they start to appear around our coastlines. Obviously, with regular appearances from
Wally and footage of
basking sharks off the coast of Clare many of us are more interested than ever in the inhabitants of Irish waters. And while seeing a brand new baby seal sounds like a dream come true, there are certain rules to follow if you do come across one to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CTuKA9xs15b/
According to SRI, if you do see a grey seal pup it's important to never approach, touch or disturb them. Observe from a distance of 100 metres and keep all children and dogs away.
If you see a seal on the shore, never put them back into the water - they're there for a reason. "Grey seal pups have white fur for the first 3 weeks of life and tend to stay on land until they moult to their spotted coat".
When they're first born these teeny seals rely solely on their mother's milk, but seal mothers will leave them for hours at a time alone on the beach. This doesn't mean they're abandoned though, mommas just need their ~me time~. If you ever do think a pup is in trouble though, you can call SRI's rescue line (087 1955 393) for advice.
How excited would you be to come across one of these little dotes?
Header image via Instagram/sealrescueireland
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