Devon is home to and visited by a wide range of marine mammals, including whales, dolphins, porpoises and seals. These speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More are all an integral part of the county’s rich coastal ecosystem. The majority, however, live in deeper waters and its only seals which are often found in Devon’s intertidal habitatsThe natural environment in which an animal, plant or other organism lives. More.
The UK has two speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More of seal: grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) and harbour seals (Phoca vitulina), also known as common seals. Grey seals are larger and can be identified by their more dog-like faces.
Seals need remote, quiet beaches and islands as haul-out areas, where they can rest, breed, digest food, moult and socialise throughout the year. Although the two speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More can use the same sites, they usually prefer to use separate areas.
Seals have a varied diet that includes fish, crabs, lobsters, shrimp, squid, cuttlefish, and octopus. While they are opportunistic feeders and eat what’s available, they tend to prefer small bait fish such as sandeels and dragonets.
Devon’s seal populations have rebounded from historic lows, particularly following the introduction of legislation such as the Conservation of Seals Act in 1970. Despite this, grey and harbour seals remain vulnerable and require ongoing protection (see Key Pressures and Opportunities below).
Both speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More are found in Devon’s coastal waters and are listed as Devon SpeciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More of Conservation Concern. However, Devon is particularly significant for grey seals, which are more commonly seen in the region. Grey seals breed locally, with well-established haul-out sites near Lundy Island and the Dart Estuary and are therefore designated as a Focus SpeciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More. Populations of both speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More will benefit from the actions set out below.