Stormy Seas Lead to Surge in Orphaned Seal Pups in Pembrokeshire
Local wildlife rescue volunteers overwhelmed after extreme weather impacts marine life
Pembrokeshire Wildlife Rescue Centre has reported a significant increase in orphaned and injured seal pups following recent months of stormy weather along the county’s coastline.
Volunteers say that while casualty seal admissions are usually steady throughout summer, this season has seen an unusually high number of pups separated from their mothers — many found alone on beaches between Tenby and St. Davids.
“We’ve taken in dozens more pups than normal,” said a spokesperson for the centre. “Storm surges have swept them away, and with sea temperatures still high, many mums are struggling to return to safe haul‑out spots.”
The charity is urging anyone walking coastal paths or beaches to report sightings of lone or distressed seal pups to their hotline and to avoid approaching or touching animals themselves.
Local volunteers have been working around the clock, and the centre has launched an emergency appeal for:
- Bedding and heat pads
- Fish supplies
- Fuel vouchers for transport
- Volunteer helpers
Marine biologists note that seal populations in West Wales are generally healthy, but stress the importance of human awareness and intervention when weather events disrupt natural behaviours.
Seal Pup Safety Tips
- Do not touch or feed seal pups
- Observe from a safe distance
- Report sightings to the wildlife rescue hotline
- Keep dogs and children away from stranded pups
- Follow local beach signage and guidance
Source: Pembrokeshire Wildlife Rescue Centre / Local Reports
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