RSPCA Explained: What should I do if I see a seal pup alone?

With this in mind, the RSPCA has issued guidance on what to do if you see a pup on its own, and when it may need help.

They may be cute but sometimes it is best to stay back.

Here’s all you need to know:

Should they be alone?

It is not unusual to see a seal pup on its own. Seal mums leave their pups very early on in life, when they are weaned at the tender age of three to four weeks old.

What should I do if I find a baby seal alone?

If the seal pup you have found looks fit and healthy and isn’t showing any signs of distress, monitor it first, where possible, from a safe distance for 24 hours.

Don’t panic and immediately surround the pup. They are often mistakenly taken into captivity when people think they have been abandoned. It is often natural for them to be by themselves.

It is advised you don't get quite as close as this, luckily 'sealy' was feeling friendly!

How can I tell if it needs help?

Baby seals can be separated from their mothers by storms and others may not feed properly for some reason and need assistance.

As described by the RSPCA, an easy way to tell if they need help is:

• A healthy seal pup looks like a big, stuffed maggot without a neck.

• An unhealthy seal pup looks thin (but not bony) and has a visible neck, like a dog.

• If the mother does not return within 24 hours, or you think the pup is sick or injured, please keep a safe distance and contact the RSPCA.

Why hello there! One curious seal has a peek

They’re cute – can I approach them?

There are multiple reasons why you should stay away from seals, the main point being they can give a nasty bite. This will often become infected by the bacteria which live in a seal’s mouth.

It is also important dogs or other animals aren’t allowed to harass a seal pup as it could be scared back into the water and washed out to sea by strong currents.

You should never put a seal pup back in the sea as it may get into difficulty.