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We were commissioned by Foveran community Council to look at how to improve the experience of seal watching at the Ythan Estuary. The seal haul out was recently given protected status and is now one of the largest congregation of grey seals on mainland Scotland.

ythan seals web
As a first part of the process we gathered the views of local stakeholders and residents as well as visitors to the estuary. We recognise that there are different views about seals and the potential benefits and impacts of visitors, so it is important to give people the opportunity to voice their opinion.

The study reviewed current facilities for visitors and identify opportunities for improvements, in keeping with the location and its cultural and natural heritage. We also looked at the information and interpretation available about the seal haul out and develop ideas about how to get the message across to all visitors about enjoying watching seals without causing disturbance.