We are approaching the summer season when Common seals give birth to their pups through June, July & August. If you are out on beaches in the coming weeks, keep your eye out for seal pups in distress. Human activity by means of boat traffic and water sports, as well as people and dogs on beaches can sometimes frighten away nursing mothers and inadvertently lead to pups being injured or orphaned.

Remember:

• Do not put the seal in the water. (Injured, sick & newborn pups are on land for a reason)
• Do not disturb them – observe from a distance.
• Do not touch pups (these animals WILL bite, and human presence may lead to mothers abandoning otherwise healthy pups)
• Keep dogs and children away.
• Take photos! (They help us determine the condition of an animal immediately, and if necessary a rescue can be organised promptly).
• Contact us for advice!

If the pup is on its own with no mum in sight; obviously injured; or if unsure please ring Exploris Aquarium on 028 4272 8062 and select option 2

Though we can provide care for these little orphans – nothing compares to a mother caring for and raising her pup so it is extremely important to prevent the circumstances where pups end up needing to be rescued, and by sharing we can all help!

Thank you!