Recent seal monitoring on the Portaferry shore front has discovered the bodies of two deceased seals, one adult and one pup. The bodies were collected by NEIA for a post-mortem examination in the hope that clues to the health of the seal population would be revealed. At this time, the cause of death for these specific animals is inconclusive but the adult had a healthy blubber layer, indicating that starvation was probably not the cause of death. Both the common and grey seals are protected species and any dead animals should be reported to the NEIA Quoile Countryside Centre (phone: 028 4461 5520).
Every year a few seals are lost due to ‘natural’ causes, though in some cases injuries caused by boat propellers, food shortages or other factors may be the cause of death. At this time of year common seals have their young. If you find a pup that you think may be in distress please don’t approach it, instead contact Exploris Aquarium (phone: 028 4272 8062). Their staff will assess if it is ill or injured and in need of help.
It is common for adult seals to leave their pups on the shore while they forage for food. Please remember that while the pups may look cute and cuddly, they are wild animals with very sharp teeth, so please don’t approach them and keep your dog on a lead. If you have any feedback or comments please get in touch with SLLP (phone: 028 4272 9005) or on Facebook.
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