First ever seal count carried out by air, land and sea

Conservationists have reported finding a surprising 708 seals in the Thames Estuary during the first ever count by air, land and sea.

The survey was carried out by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), who took to the air, water and solid ground to help tally up the number of grey and harbour seals along the Thames.

Stephen Mowat, Thames Projects Manager for ZSL, explains: "The harbour seal population in south-east England is the least understood in the country. As well as the survey, we are urging members of the public to report sightings of seals and other marine mammals to us."

Joanna Barker, conservation scientist for ZSL, says drastic declines have been seen in harbour seal populations across Scotland, and they have almost disappeared from some areas.

"This broad approach will produce the first complete count of harbour seals in the Thames and south-east coast, so that we can accurately monitor the species to better understand and protect them," she adds.

The survey was timed to coincide with the annual seal moult, as harbour seals shuffle onto sandbanks in order to shed their coats and grow a new layer in time for winter, making them easier to spot.

ZSL have created an interactive seal map which shows the results of the survey. It is hoped that further information supplied by members of the public will help inform ZSL of the threats faced by marine animals in UK waters.

Visit the ZSL website to view the interactive seal map or click here to report information on seals or other marine animals seen in the Thames.

Images courtesy of ZSL