Saint Mary’s Island in the UK is home to a large population of seals. The seals have become a major tourist attraction. People like to get close to the seals that hang out on the cliffs so that they can snap photographs of them. The problem is that seals look at humans as a threat. This area is also a major habitat for the seals. The seals often flee from the humans and jump off the cliffs and hurt themselves.
St. Mary’s Seal Watch (SMSW) is a local wildlife protection group whose job it is to protect the seal’s habitat. SMSW released a video to show the problems with tourists approaching seals.
Sally Bennett, a spokesperson for the group explained, “Video clips are recorded not to name and shame the individuals, but to record what happens.” Bennet goes on to say, “When it happens repeatedly, it can reduce the animal’s chances of remaining healthy or even their survival. The chance of injury is high.”
This area is particular is a very important habitat for the seals. SMSW is concerned that the seals may stop using this area if they are disturbed much more. Bennet explains, “St. Mary’s Island is a grey seal haul-out. A haul-out is a land base where seals return on a regular basis to carry out essential life functions such as breeding, digestion, and restoration of energy.”Seals Are Jumping Off Cliffs To Avoid Tourists, Heartbreaking Footage We Need To Stop ItSeals Are Jumping Off Cliffs To Avoid Tourists, Heartbreaking Footage We Need To HelpSeals Are Jumping Off Cliffs To Avoid Tourists, Heartbreaking Footage We Need To Help
Bennet also added that “Rest is essential for these young pups and the loss of an important ‘pit stop’ will have a serious impact on their well-being.”
Please watch and share this video so that people everywhere will become educated on the importance of not disturbing seals or any wildlife for that matter.
SHARE with friends to bring awareness to this growing problem.
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