AN Animal charity is warning people "not to approach" seal pups after one was spotted on a beach.
Photographs show a seal pup which was spotted on Saltdean beach at 10am on Friday, October 9.
Brighton Dolphin Project, a charity project of the World Cetacean Alliance, has received a number of reports of lone seal pups in recent weeks.
The group are warning the public not to approach the seals whatever good intentions they may have.
Lloyd Gofton, a spokesman for Brighton Dolphin Project said: “We’ve had a number of reports of lone seal pups over the last few weeks, and this is completely normal for the time of year as we are in seal pupping season.
“We are very lucky to live in such close proximity to Common and Grey Seals, but our advice is not to approach any pups, especially whitecoat pups.
“Please do not encourage them into the water, as they don’t swim well at this young age.
“But do give them plenty of space as seal mothers come back to feed their pup every 4-6 hours and if she doesn’t think it’s safe to return then she may abandon the pup.
“As the pups grow and no longer need their mother’s help, they will find their own way around the coast, sometimes coming out to rest in public places.
“Again, please do not disturb them as they may be exhausted and just need a break.”
The project is keen to advise anyone that does have concerns about the welfare of a seal, to contact the appropriate wildlife organisations.
Mr Gofton said: “If you are concerned about a pup, because it is thin or obviously sick, please monitor it from a distance to see if its mother returns before contacting rescue organisations such as the RSPCA or the British Divers Marine Rescue (BDMR).”
The warning comes after the British Divers Marine Life Rescue reported several incidents of beach-goers interfering with seal pups across the UK.
A seal pup in Lowestoft was taken a rehabilitation centre after the BDMR reported people were trying to put the seal back in the sea.
Photographs provided by Austin Oliver.
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