Public urged not to disturb new seal pups at Forvie National Nature Reserve in Ellon

Visitors have been warned not to approach new seal pups after ‘continued disturbance’ from visitors in Ellon.

NatureScot confirmed that five grey seal pups were spotted at Forvie National Nature Reserve (NNR) this breeding season.

Previous advice was to keep a safe distance from the seals at the reserve, but people are now being asked to avoid the point where seals leave the water entirely.

Signs have been erected on the reserve to advise visitors of the new local access guidance.

The north east reserve hosts one of Scotland’s largest seal haulouts at the mouth of the River Ythan.

Five grey seal pups have been spotted at Forvie National Nature Reserve (NNR) this breeding season. NatureScot

NatureScot said the seal pups appear to be “doing well so far” but asked visitors to protect the vulnerable youngsters by following the new guidance.

Forvie NNR reserve manager Cat Reid said the pups were in a “critical period” of development and urged the public to avoid disturbing them, as they could be abandoned by their mothers.

“As ever, we’d just like to remind visitors how important it is that the seals are not disturbed during this critical period,” she said.

“Pups may be abandoned by their mothers or crushed as seals stampede into the water to escape from people.”

Seal pups could be crushed or abandoned by their mothers if visitors disturb the seals during this time. NatureScot

She added: “If you want to see the seals and see if you can spot a pup this Christmas, then the best and safest way is to go to the beach road car park in Newburgh, where you can enjoy great views and photo opportunities without disturbing the colony. We’d like to say a huge thank you to visitors for their help in keeping the seals safe.”

The best place for people to see the seals is from a safe distance on the south side of the river at Newburgh, where there is a new all-abilities boardwalk and viewing platform.

A spokesperson for NatureScot said: “As a designated seal haul-out site, it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly harass a seal at Forvie.

“If anyone thinks they have witnessed a wildlife crime on the reserve, they should contact Police Scotland on 101.”