Last year, a beachgoer was walking down Cleethorpes Beach in England when they spotted an odd shape on the sand up ahead.
The dark figure looked like a seal, and it wasn’t moving. The beachgoer didn’t want to get too close, but they also wanted to make sure the animal was OK, so they called Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue for help.
At first, Cleethorpes rescuers were stumped. But soon, they realized the truth.
“From the promenade, we must admit that it did look to have the right shape and posture to be a seal, but we had our reservations,” a representative from the rescue team told The Dodo. “It became more and more apparent as the marine life volunteers approached that it wasn’t a seal … it was a good laugh between the responding team.”
It turns out, the “seal” resting on the beach was actually just a seal-shaped piece of driftwood.
Though this animal rescue didn’t involve any animals at all, it’s a good learning opportunity for those who might spot wild seals in the future. These animals can often be found on beaches, and much of the time, they don’t need help.
“I think it’s important that we recognize that seals on the beach are not ‘stranded,’” the representative said. “‘Stranded’ suggests that they are stuck and cannot help themselves, whereas, in reality, seals use the beach to rest between tides, it’s completely normal, and more often than not, they should be left undisturbed.”
According to the Cleethorpes expert, marine animal strandings are more associated with porpoises, whales and dolphins — animals who don’t use the beach to rest.
Cleethorpes beach is near Donna Nook, a nature reserve where thousands of grey seals go to give birth each year. In order to keep these animals safe, onlookers should be aware of a few rules.
“[S]tay back, stay quiet, put dogs on leads, and if you have any concerns … contact a rescue,” the representative said. “Importantly, never approach or encourage a seal back to the tide.”
With this information in mind, next time there’s a real seal on the beach, those who care for these animals’ safety will know exactly what to do.