'Every signature helps': BDMLR urges the public to support new 'Give Seals Space' campaign
The British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) have highlighted the launch of a new ‘Give Seals Space’ campaign to try and protect the seals that call the Yorkshire coast, and shores across the UK, their home.
The UK is home to internationally important populations of grey and harbour (common) seals. Yet, despite recommendations from conservation experts, neither species is protected from intentional or reckless disturbance under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, the primary legislation used to protect wildlife in the UK.
On May 25, the UK Seal Alliance launched the Give Seals Space Campaign, calling on the Government to reconsider previous recommendations and provide grey and harbour seals with the legal protection they deserve. A spokesperson from the BDMLR said: “The UK supports up to 38% of the world’s Atlantic grey seals and an internationally important population of harbour seals.
"Seals are highly sensitive to disturbance, such as members of the public approaching too closely, surrounding animals for photographs, flying drones overhead, or repeatedly disturbing haul-out sites.
“Disturbance can force seals to waste valuable energy reserves, increase stress levels, and even contribute to pup abandonment. With growing pressures from tourism, recreation, drones and uncontrolled dogs, the need for protection has never been greater. “That's why the Give Seals Space campaign has been launched by The Seal Alliance, calling on the Government to reconsider expert recommendations and provide seals with legal protection from disturbance.” “Public support is critical to its success. Please sign and share the petition, every signature helps show that seal protection matters.” Visit https://www.change.org/p/give-seals-space to sign the petition, and visit https://bdmlr.org.uk/give-seals-space-why-legal-protection-matters to find out more.