ISLANDERS are being urged to keep their distance from seals after several were spotted coming ashore onto beaches and slips.
Jersey Coastguard has issued a plea for Islanders not to disturb the animals, which are believed to be seeking rest on dry land after shedding their winter coats.
‘If you see a seal on land please remember they are wild animals. For your and their safety please remain a safe distance from them and try not to disturb them,’ the Coastguard said in a statement.
Meanwhile, volunteers working for British Divers Marine Life Rescue Channel Islands are monitoring a seal which was recently seen in St Helier Harbour with scars indicating it had become entangled in fishing line.
The seal is now free from the line but is going through what the organisation describes as the ‘exhausting’ process of her annual moult.
In a Facebook post, the group said: ‘She just needs to rest as much as possible and we appreciate everyone giving her the space she needs.’
In a follow-up post, the organisation said: ‘We are continuing to monitor the recently entangled seal in St Helier and appreciate the sightings coming in privately on message or phone.
‘She is lethargic and needs all the rest and peace she can get. When hauled out it is so important she is not disturbed and sent back in the water. It is vital for her survival that she gets some drying out time.’
The group has asked people not to post details of the seal’s exact location on social media, and has asked dog walkers around the Harbour to keep their pets on a lead.
