Humans to blame for seal attacks

IN the light of the recent media reports of attacks by seals on bathers in

Dublin’s Forty Foot, and knee-jerk calls for a cull on the “offenders” it’s worth remembering that human activity is largely responsible for this situation.

As a regular swimmer in this part of Dublin Bay I can confirm that reports

of seal attacks are nothing new. It’s just that they are increasing in incidence due to a variety of factors, most of them related to human activity.

Seal numbers have increased as a result of them being made a protected species in recent years.

Being naturally curious and territorial animals, they are becoming bolder in approaching swimmers. The misguided and irresponsible habit people have adopted, especially in nearby Bullock Harbour, of feeding seals has contributed in large part to this, very serious, problem.

It’s debatable whether culling the creatures is the correct answer. What’s indisputable is that these are wild animals, not pets, and should be treated as such. Educational signs, warning of the dangers associated with failing to do so, should be erected by the local council immediately before a tragedy occurs.

David Marlborough

Kenilworth Park

Dublin 6w