VIDEO: A seal that has been frequenting the Sandown Bay area for the past couple of months got up close and personal with one Island Echo reader this weekend, which was amazingly captured on camera.
Islander Dan Vokins, a keen kayaker, was enjoying this weekend’s sunshine off of the east coast of the Island when the adorable mammal decided to pay a visit, swimming around and under the kayak and even having a good old sniff of the camera.
As previously reported by Island Echo at the end of June, the pup has been entertaining holiday makers and locals alike and has become somewhat of a celebrity.
Islanders have reported seeing seals across the Island including in the Bonchurch, Brook and Gurnard areas, although ‘Sidney’ (as named by Dan) is proving to be a friendly and much-loved character in The Bay, travelling between Yaverland and Shanklin.
However, readers are reminded of the dangers that seals pose. Following the increase in seal sightings on the Island’s coastline, the British Divers Marine Life Rescue organisation have said:
“The infection caused by a seal bite results in a serious and painful condition called ‘Seal Finger’. This affects the joints and if untreated may result in the need for amputation. If anyone is bitten or scratched, they must seek immediate treatment however small the bite and as general antibiotics do not work, a course of Tetracyline is the only known cure currently.
“Seals are mammals and other diseases can be transferred to humans and dogs quite easily, so contact should be avoided. This works the other way as well, as we can inadvertently transfer diseases to them through contact.
“The organisation’s volunteers are trained on how to approach and handle marine wildlife to reduce the chance of harm to the animals and to themselves. Unless an animal needs attention it should be left alone and observed from a safe distance that will not change its behaviour and observers should remain quiet and keep any dogs on a lead and away from the seal. This will allow you and others to enjoy the experience for longer without putting yourself, or the animal at risk”.
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Video thanks to Dan Vokins
