Kayaks, drones, now paddleboards: the ‘silent’ sports that threaten seals

Wildlife groups call for protection as numbers fall due to human activities around UK coast

This month should be prime pupping season on the spectacular Cornish coast, whose rich waters and sheltered coves attract grey and common seals from all around the British Isles and beyond. But wildlife groups are concerned that seal numbers appear to be lower than in previous years - and part of the reason is down to a rise in silent" water sports.

Up and down the country there has been an alarming increase in incidents where humans, dogs or drones have caused disturbance to one of the UK's most important wildlife populations. The number of recorded seal disturbances in Cornwall alone has doubled since last year, according to data collected by the Seal Research Trust. It believes that the huge growth in kayaking, paddleboarding and wild swimming is now a significant factor.