Norfolk seal charity urges public to keep 100m distance from grey seals

Friends of Horsey Seals warned that visitors to Norfolk’s beaches are repeatedly ignoring advice to stay away from grey seals. The charity recorded numerous incidents in the past week where people approached the animals for photos, causing stress, energy loss and potential injury.

The group urges the public to keep at least 100 metres (the length of a football pitch) from seals, as recommended by the RSPCA, and reminds that both grey and common seals are protected under UK wildlife law. It operates seal wardens to educate visitors and a rescue team for injured animals, and asks anyone witnessing disturbances to report them.

Disturbing seals can lead to pain, sleep deprivation and even death from starvation. The charity stresses that no social‑media likes justify harming the animals and that illegal contact, feeding or petting can result in prosecution.