RESIDENTS are being advised to keep clear of seal pups if they find them on the beach or run the risk of committing an offence under Manx Law.

The breeding season for grey seals is generally between September and December and during this time they often appear on Manx beaches.

Well meaning people are often mistaken in thinking that the pups are in danger and try to rescue them.

However the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture has issued a warning to residents that they should keep clear of seal pups as they are protected under the Wildlife Act 1990 from intentional and reckless disturbance.

Seal pups are born with a fluffy white coat and suckle from their mothers without going into the sea for the first two to three weeks of their lives. In most cases the pups have not been abandoned and are simply waiting while the mother searches for food.

Approaching, handling and picking up a seal pup can cause the mother distress and she may abandon her young. The animals can bite and carry diseases which are transferable to humans and dogs.

If you find a seal and think it is sick, injured, or genuinely abandoned the department advises that you watch from a distance and do the following:

1. Telephone the MSPCA on 01624 851672 for advice and help.
2. Keep people and dogs away until help arrives.
3. Watch from a distance. Injured animals can bite.
4. Do not chase the animal into the sea

If you discover a dead marine animal you should report it to Dr Fiona Gell and Laura Hanley on 01624 685857 and 01624 695738.