As Ireland is set for another heatwave. It is only natural for everyone to flock to the coast for some rest and relaxation on our beaches. Seal Rescue Ireland would like to urge the public to be aware that it is also Common Seal Pupping Season. At this time of year, (June, July & August) Common Seal Mums are looking for a quiet safe space to birth and nurse their pups. This could be a beach near you!
If you are out on beaches in the coming weeks, keep an eye out for pups in distress. Human activity in the form of boat traffic, water sports and people walking with dogs on beaches can frighten away nursing mothers and inadvertently lead to pups being injured or orphaned!
Do not put a seal in the water. (Injured, sick & newborn pups are on land for a reason)
Do not disturb them, please observe from a minimum distance of 100m to ensure the mum does not get frightened away..
Do not touch pups (these animals WILL bite, and human presence may lead to mothers abandoning otherwise healthy pups)
Keep dogs on leash and children away, Seal mum’s are more defensive during pupping season.
Please Take photos using the zoom function on your camera! (They help us determine an animal’s condition immediately, and if necessary, a rescue can be organised promptly.)
If the pup is on its own with no mum in sight, injured or if you are unsure, contact our 24/7 Rescue Hotline for advice on 087 1955 393!
Nothing compares to a mum caring for and raising her pup, so it’s extremely important that everyone helps us to prevent the circumstances where pups need to be rescued. By sharing this information – and helping to keep these pups safe, we can all help!
For more info, visit: www.sealrescueireland.org/our-work/rescue
Registered Charity No. 20108519