Supremely Adapted

Seals can dive deep and stay underwater for extended periods. They are opportunists and frequently come into conflict with the increasing number of commercial salmon farms around our shores.

But who can blame a seal for taking advantage of an easy meal when we have infringed on their habitat and wild fish stocks are in serious decline?

Many are culled both under licence and illegally. Work continues to find ways to deter them from raiding nets. Marine pollution and the insidious presence of plastics remain one of the greatest dangers for all sea life, and human disturbance, with fast boats or jet skis approaching too close to their haul or pupping sites, causes much damage.