Islanders are being urged to keep their distance from grey seal pups found on beaches as autumn and winter swells can wash them away from their mothers.
British Divers Marine Life Rescue Jersey (BDMLR) issued the reminder as grey seal pupping season gets under way.
The charity said Jersey has no designated pupping site, so mothers seek out undisturbed places to give birth.
However, these areas are often submerged during big swells, making it “near impossible” for newborn pups to stay safe during high tides and rough seas.
“If pups are washed away, they can turn up on any of our local beaches, with or without mum,” the charity explained.
In its social media post, BDMLR urged anyone who finds a pup to stay back and look for its mother while calling for help.
Beachgoers should keep dogs on leads and young children well away. They should never try to herd a pup back into the water or share its location on social media.
Anyone concerned about a seal pup is asked to call BDMLR’s 24-hour head office on 01825 765546, or contact the JSPCA on 724331, or 07797 720331 outside office hours.
