seal snorkel in Cornwall
I did , however , get to meet some of the permanent residents , those seals with problems so severe that they would never survive without the support of their human handlers . Their conditions range from brain injuries to blindness . This non-profit sanctuary is open to the public and the fees generated help keep the doors open , the rescue and rehabilitation programme working and the resident patients healthy .
Not all the problems are man-made ; seals seem to suffer from many of the same birth defects , diseases and problems that we humans have in our own population .
Stalking a scooter snorkeller
Although I wasn ’ t allowed to snorkel with any of the residents , it was fascinating to interact with these large mammals closeup and out of the water , a scenario that wouldn ’ t be possible in the wild .
Encountering a seal underwater is a gift . You are very much in their element , so advice such as “ don ’ t chase after them ” isn ’ t strictly speaking necessary , as they will outpace any diver , any time . On land , however , they are more vulnerable and wary . If you see a young pup still with its white , furry coat it may look abandoned but the mothers , who leave often for hours at a time to feed , will return .
If you remain close by , your presence may actually scare the mother off , sometimes permanently . However , if a seal , of any age , looks in real , obvious difficulty there are a number of ways in which you can help . In Cornwall , telephone the Seal Sanctuary direct ( 01326 221361 ) or the Cornish Wildlife Trust Hotline ( 0345 201 26 26 ) if you see a distressed seal while diving . Across the rest of the UK , and in Cornwall , the best numbers for advice and assistance are British Divers Marine Life Rescue ( 01825 765546 – 24 hours ) or the RSPCA ( 0300 1234 999 – also 24 hours but only covering England and Wales ). �
Walking the sands of Cornwall
For more information on snorkelling with BSAC go to bsac . com / snorkelling Looking to introduce snokelling into your club ? Find out more at bsac . com / snorkellinginstructor
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