Gray seals

Seals spotted on sand

Dave Beasley Thursday, January 10, 2013
10:35 AM

A rare site of three grey seals has been captured on camera by Marina resident Richard Soper.

The photograph was taken from his fourth-floor Regatta Court balcony.

“They were on Bull Hill as the tide was coming in. Cockwood is just out of the photograph,” he said.

“I have not seen three together before. Usually only one or two sunning themselves.”

He said it was the first time in 30 years he had seen three seals together.

Seals are not a common sight, but can be spotted off the East Devon coast.

The estuary is an important habitat for both resident and migratory birds, as well as seals and birds of prey.

But seals are often difficult to spot and usually keep their distance from the shore.

“I suppose they came inland looking for food.”

Richard took the other pictures over the summer.

One of the seals is rather elderly and has been spotted in the Exe over many years and is thought to have cataracts in both eyes.

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