Lizard Point is the southernmost mainland point in Great Britain, but this Cornwall tourist highlight is also a well-known wildlife hangout.
Grey seals and common seals are often spotted here, occasionally at Lizard Point Beach. However, these are wild animals that need space and quiet. To enjoy seal watching without causing disturbance, these should be your guiding principles…
Why disturbance harms seals
Disturbance is any change to a seal’s natural behaviour caused by people. It can interrupt their rest, separate mothers from pups, and cause panicked rushes into the sea that may lead to injury. Seals need time on land to digest, socialise and feed their pups, so keeping your distance helps them stay healthy.
Five great things to do while you’re in Cornwall
- 👻 Feel the chills in the abandoned cells on a hugely atmospheric tour of Bodmin Jail.
- 🌱 Explore the world’s largest indoor rainforest at the Eden Project.
- 🎬 Discover the Beyond Paradise filming locations around Looe on a specialised tour.
- 🐬 Spot dolphins, seals and porpoises on a RIB sealife safari from Padstow.
- 🏄 Hit the surf in Newquay with a two hour surfing lesson.
Do keep
- Well away: watch with binoculars or your camera’s zoom rather than approaching.
- Quiet: speak softly and avoid sudden noises.
- Downwind: position yourself so seals are less likely to catch your scent.
- Out of sight: stay low and keep to cover where possible.
- Dogs under control: use a lead near seal haul-outs.
- Litter taken home: remove all rubbish to protect the coastline.
Signs of seal disturbance
- A seal lifts its head and looks directly at you.
- Seals shuffle, move away or try to head for the water.
- Pups become separated from their mothers.
- Seals rush into the sea and may injure themselves.
- A big splash or crash dive that shows distress.
If you see any of these signs, step back and give more space.
Never
- Get close to seals.
- Fly drones near seals.
- Feed wild seals.
- Chase seals or try to make them move.
- Copy unsafe behaviour you see from others.
- Take selfies with seals.
Quick summary
Give seals plenty of space, keep noise down, and watch from a distance. Respect their need to rest and care for pups, and you will help protect one of Cornwall’s most memorable wildlife experiences.
This guide is based on advice provided by the National Trust, which manages Lizard Point.
More Cornwall travel
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