A seal pup has been discovered on a golf course in East Lothian, prompting locals to be advised to keep their distance from the animal. The pup was found on Dunbar Golf Course on Monday, appearing to be in good health. Residents noticed the pup resting and speculated that it might be waiting for the high tide to return to the sea.
While the pup seemed fine, the Scottish SPCA cautioned residents to stay away from the animal, especially keeping children and dogs at a safe distance. The organisation stressed that seal pups should not be touched, carried, or chased back into the water. If anyone suspects a seal pup may be in distress, they were advised to contact the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) for assistance.
Volunteers from BDMLR explained that seal pups often come ashore to rest, sometimes without their mothers present. The Scottish SPCA provided guidelines for approaching seal pups, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe distance, keeping children and pets away, and refraining from any attempts to intervene unless there are signs of illness or injury.
The community was reminded that seal pups left onshore by their mothers are typically not in danger and do not require assistance unless there are clear indicators of distress. Monitoring the pup from a distance for 24 hours was recommended, as the mother seal may return. It was highlighted that interfering with the pup’s natural resting behaviour could cause stress and harm to the animal.
In situations where people encounter seals on beaches, it is crucial to be aware of the mother’s presence and to avoid actions that could disrupt their natural behaviour. By respecting wildlife and following appropriate guidelines, residents can ensure the safety and well-being of seal pups and their mothers in coastal areas.