Grey seal pup believed to be first born in Beaulieu River

The grey seal pup is believed to be the first of its kind to be born on Beaulieu River

A grey seal pup born on Beaulieu River is believed to be the first of its kind in Hampshire waters.

The Buckler's Hard Yacht Harbour team said they are now trying to stop the pup being disturbed by river users.

They also said they are working with conservationists to give it "every chance of survival".

Harbour master Wendy Stowe said they were "very excited" as it is believed grey seals do not usually breed in local waters.

It is believed the pup was born on the river, which is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), about a month ago.

Since spotting the seal, the harbour team have been working with Natural England, the Seal Alliance, British Divers Marine Life Rescue and Wild New Forest Guided Tours to protect it.

The harbour team are now working with conservationists to protect the pup from disturbance by river users

Ms Stowe said: "We believe it is the first pup to survive here.

"We would like to thank all of our river users for acting responsibly and helping us to keep the seal pup safe and undisturbed during its all-important first month.

"We are looking forward to watching it grow and join the grey seal colony on the Beaulieu River."

She explained grey seals are a native wildlife species, which naturally colonised the Beaulieu River but only recently started to breed locally.

It is believed the pup is about one month old

Ms Stowe said: "We feel fortunate to share such a wonderful area of the New Forest and have a duty of care to protect that environment and its inhabitants.

"We ask river users to continue to help us give this new pup the best chance for its future."

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