Least Concern· population increasing· assessed 2016

Grey Seal

Halichoerus grypus

Sighting evidence at Garvellachs Islands, Oban

Grey seals haul out on the rocky shores of the Garvellachs in significant numbers and frequently enter the water to investigate divers with intense curiosity. Juveniles in particular will swim repeated circles around divers, grab at fins, and blow bubbles in mock intimidation. Scotland holds roughly 40% of the world's grey seal population, and the Garvellachs colony is one of the most diver-accessible on the west coast.

Evidence at this site

No confirmed records on file at this site

Grey Seal is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.

How is this calculated?

Sighting evidence is compiled from iNaturalist observation records within a set proximity radius, filtered for quality-grade observations. “Last confirmed” is the date of the most recent research-grade record. Record count covers a rolling 24-month window. Confidence reflects record count, recency, and consistency of seasonal signal.

Grey Seal

Evidence at this site

Also seen at other sites