06/01/2026
Seal Update – Cleethorpes Beach
Yesterday, we were contacted by members of the public, as well as our colleagues at BDMLR, following concerns about the health of a grey seal pup resting on Cleethorpes Beach. These concerns largely arose after a small number of well-intentioned people approached the seal to check whether it was okay.
A marine life volunteer and a qualified marine life medic attended the area and carried out a brief visual assessment. They were able to confirm that the seal appeared healthy, alert, and not in need of intervention, and that it simply required space and time to rest.
This information was shared with the team at BDMLR, who were equally satisfied with the assessment and outcome.
As the section of beach was relatively quiet and the risk of ongoing disturbance was low, we felt that setting up a formal seal watch could actually increase attention and encourage more people to visit the area. Instead, we placed clear signage nearby to inform passers-by that the seal had already been assessed and to remind people to keep their distance. Cleethorpes Beach Safety also monitored the area via CCTV and politely requested that the few people who approached too closely give the seal adequate space.
This joint approach helped reassure members of the public while allowing the seal to rest undisturbed.
The seal arrived on the morning tide, remained on the beach overnight, and left safely on the following morning after a well-earned rest.
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A reminder about seals on our coast
Seals regularly frequent our coastline, and many will never require any assistance. It is completely normal for them to haul out on beaches to rest and digest their food.
If you encounter a seal:
• Keep at least 100 metres away
• Do not approach, touch, or attempt to move it
• Never push a seal back into the sea
• Keep dogs well away and under control
If you are concerned about a seal’s welfare, please do not approach it. Instead, contact a local rescue organisation with marine mammal experience. They will assess the situation and advise whether monitoring or intervention is necessary.
We understand that coming across a seal can be worrying for some people, but please remember that wildlife rescue services are run almost entirely by volunteers. Everyone involved will do their best to respond and advise as quickly as possible, alongside work, family commitments, and other ongoing rescues.
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Local contacts for seal concerns
📞 BDMLR – 01825 765546
📞 Mablethorpe Seal Sanctuary – 01507 473346
📞 Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue – 01472 472217
Thank you to everyone who reported their concerns and helped give this seal the space it needed.