Seal pup season: Keep your distance

People on the Isle of Man are being urged to keep their distance from seal pups which wash ashore.

The Manx Wildlife Trust has issued a warning ahead of the seal pupping season on the island.

The group said the first pups of the year have been spotted and should not be disturbed in any way.

A spokesman said the pups can sometimes be left alone while their mothers forage for food, and it's important not to get too close as the mothers can abandon the babies if they feel threatened. 

The Seal code of conduct says observers must keep a distance of about 50 meters. 

Anyone who spots a pup on a busy beach or an injured seal is asked to contact MWT directly.