Every year between October and December, 3% of the British population of grey seals come ashore at Donna Nook to give birth and nurse their pups, before returning to sea. The Donna Nook visitor viewing area provides an accessible stretch of path that allows visitors to get a closer look at the mothers and pups. The site is effectively managed by one of our members, Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, through their staff and voluntary seal wardens (who will be visible in red coats).
The UK is home to two species of seals; harbour and grey seals. Grey seals have longer snouts and are larger than harbour seals, with some grey seals weighting over 200kg. Grey seal pups are covered in a white fluffy coat, which they will shed before they leave for sea. Donna Nook is an ideal nursery site due to its wide sand dunes and saltmarsh, which protects seal pups from the sea before they are old enough to survive independently.
Although seal pups grow quickly in the 6 weeks they are on land, they still have threats to overcome before they can return to sea.
Infection - Many young animals are prone to infection and diseases in their first few weeks of life, and often some do not have the immune system to survive.
Drowning - Seal pups do not have a fully waterproof coat until they have finished their first moult. During harsher weather some younger pups can be swept out to sea before they are strong enough.
Starvation - If seals are regularly disturbed a mother may not return to feed her pup enough or at all.
Abandoning - When seal pups come into close contact with humans or the mothers are disturbed regularly, this can distress the mother and cause her to abandon the pup before it can fend for itself.
When visiting Donna Nook to see the seals, dress up warm as it tends to be windy and cold. Please be mindful of the signs and barriers - the site is an active bombing range and the signs are there for your own safety as well as that of the seals. While you're on site, take some time to read the notice boards and have a chat to the seal wardens, who can give you more information about seals and help you to safely enjoy your visit. Please leave pets at home, to ensure no transmission of disease between the seals and pets - after all, seals are mammals too.
When watching wildlife (not just at Donna Nook), make sure to stick to allocated paths, follow the advice and signs of the managing organisations. Give wildlife space - no one wants to be hounded by thousands of people whilst trying to nurse their baby! If you see a seal that you think needs help, let a seal warden know - they'll be ready to act and ensure the appropriate protocol is followed.
But mostly, enjoy watching one of the incredible spectacles we're lucky enough to see along the Lincolnshire Coast every year!
