Seal of approval: Couple's magic mammal encounter

Name: Seal of approval: Mammal makes a splash off Hastings
Uploaded: 2025-06-25T15:21:48.805Z
Duration: 1 min
Description: Paul Faraway was kayaking off Hastings when he and his wife met a curious harbour seal.

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A couple caught on camera a close encounter they had with a seal while they were kayaking near Hastings.

They were just off Rock-A-Nore in the resort when the mammal started playing with their paddles and splashing near them.

Paul Faraway said: "The seal came to us after following for quite a while, clearly very inquisitive."

Ella Garrud, Sussex Wildlife Trust Wilder communities coastal officer, said: "It's incredible to observe top predators, such as seals, that we have in Sussex.

"Any interaction you have with marine wildlife should be on their terms. If a seal approaches you, remain calm, do not touch the animal and, if you can, move away slowly to give the animal space."

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