Least Concern· population increasing· assessed 2016

Atlantic Grey Seal

Halichoerus grypus

Sighting evidence at Skomer Island, Wales (Pembrokeshire)

Skomer's seal colony of several hundred individuals is one of the largest in Wales, and underwater encounters are among the most interactive in Britain — young seals in particular mouth fins, tug BCDs, and spiral around divers in extended play sessions. The seals use the kelp forests as hunting grounds, and divers often witness high-speed pursuit chases through fronds as the seals ambush wrasse and pollock. Autumn brings noisy pupping season on shore; underwater juveniles are particularly curious and bold from December onward.

Evidence at this site

No confirmed records on file at this site

Atlantic 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.

Also seen at other sites

Rathlin Island→