Go back to our general advice page for how to help injured wildlife
If you find a seal on a beach, watch it from a distance. Do not approach the animal. Seals regularly haul out on our coasts – it is part of their normal behaviour and, in fact, they spend more time out of the water digesting their food and resting than in it. Therefore, finding a seal on the beach does not mean there is necessarily a problem so do not chase it into the sea as this may stop it from doing what it needs to do – rest. A healthy seal should be left alone.
Do not approach a seal or allow children or dogs near it. Seals are wild animals and although they look cute, they can defend themselves aggressively if they need to.
After stormy weather and/or high tides, seals will haul out on beaches to rest and regain their strength. Many do not need first aid, but the BDMLR Rescue will always try to find someone to check them out just in case.
However, if there is a problem, there are a number of things you may see.
If you see a seal that may be abandoned, thin, ill or injured, then call for advice and assistance: BDMLR Rescue Hotline: 01825 765546 (24 hr) or RSPCA hotline (England and Wales) 0300 1234 999.
You will receive further advice over the phone.
Hunstanton Sea Life Sanctuary
Address: Hunstanton, Norfolk PE36 5BH
Telephone number: 01485 533576
Website: https://helpwildlife.co.uk
Marine and Wildlife Rescue
Address: Marine House, Marine Park, Gapton Hall Road, Great Yarmouth NR31 0NB
Telephone for assistance: 01692 650338
Website: https://marineandwildliferescue.org.uk/
Seal & Bird Rescue Trust
Address: The Barns, Mill Common Rd, Ridlington, North Walsham NR28 9TY
Phone: 01692 650338
Website: https://marineandwildliferescue.org.uk/
Note: Inclusion in our directory is NOT an endorsement. You are strongly advised to check the suitability of any organisation you contact to help with your wildlife casualty