A heartwarming moment was captured recently at the Donna Nook nature reserve in Lincolnshire, where a visitor recorded footage of a newborn baby grey seal pup just moments after its birth. The fluffy, wide-eyed pup, one of 128 born at the reserve so far this year, exemplifies the wonder of wildlife in the region.
The coastline between North Somercotes and Saltfleet becomes a hub for seal births each year from late October to December, when hundreds of grey seals flock to the shores to give birth. This time of year brings thousands of seal pups into the world, and Donna Nook is one of the prime locations for these births. The sight of newborn pups with their soft, fluffy fur is a spectacle that attracts wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the country.
Currently, about 20 pups are visible from the viewing path at Donna Nook, allowing visitors a glimpse into the early stages of the seals’ lives. To ensure that the seals are not disturbed during this critical time, the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust has set up a series of guidelines to minimize human interference. These guidelines, which are available on the Trust’s website, are designed to help visitors observe the seals from a safe distance, allowing the animals to give birth and care for their young in peace.
The reserve’s success in protecting these seal pups is a result of careful management and public education. By providing clear instructions for visitors and creating viewing areas that keep a respectful distance, the Trust helps ensure the continued survival of the grey seal population in the area. Every year, these protected environments allow more pups to thrive, adding to the growing population of seals along the Lincolnshire coast.