Shetland Outdoors

During Grey seal pupping season it is important to be mindful when out visiting Shetland’s wild spaces that they are not disturbed during this crucial time. This is especially true at designated seal haul out sites.

Haul out sites are where seals come out of the water to rest, moult, breed and to have pups. Seals that are hauled out may be particularly sensitive to approach by humans or vehicles, therefore caution is required in such circumstances. It is an offence to intentionally, or recklessly harass a seal at a designated haul out site.  

Marine Scotland have produced this useful blog post that gives more information about Seal Haul Out sites, their locations and guidance on watching marine wildlife. 

https://blogs.gov.scot/marine-scotland/2023/09/19/responsible-wildlife-watching-around-seals/