Every year on March 22, the International Day of the Seal promotes the conservation of seals worldwide. It is also a day to celebrate this amazing marine mammal.
Over the last few years, the sighting of seals in Rye Harbour and along the River Rother has increased. It is wonderful to be walking along the river when a head bobs up out of the water but most exciting is to see them basking in the mud along the banks. There are two species of seal at Rye Harbour and generally the Grey Seal is in the open sea and the Harbour Seal is in the river.
Luke Hodges, who runs the boat trips up the river in search of seals on the Safari Princess, described how the business began: “We started the seal trips last year as we knew that the those in Devon and Cornwall had worked well so we thought, why not Rye Harbour? Our aim is to give as many people, especially families, the chance to see these beautiful creatures but not charge exorbitant prices for the opportunity.
“The boat we have now means that it is safe for children to walk around the wheel-house and they can access all views of the river banks. We have lots of families who come with three or four generations. We have a boarding gate in the side so access getting on and off is so much easier. There is no clambering over the side of the boat. Although people come to see seals they are also interested in the wildlife and birds which are on the riverbanks.”
Jeff Robus, who works alongside Luke, added, “There is so much to see and the view of Rye from the river is really stunning.”
Bethany went on one of the safaris and she and her family thoroughly enjoyed the trip. “Yesterday,” she said, “my family and I went to Rye to go on the seal safari, it having been recommended by a friend. I went with my mother, father, husband and three children one of whom is autistic. We went for a Mother’s Day gift to my mother as she loves animals. It was such a lovely fun experience. The men working the boat were kind and helpful with getting us all on and off the boat safely and were so kind and chatty whilst on the boat. While going along the river we saw beautiful seals relaxing, playing, swimming along the river it was very special to see. We also got to see all types of boats. My children all got a turn in the captain’s cockpit, got to sit in his chair and he explained all about what he does etc. He was extremely patient and inclusive, especially with my daughter. All my children loved it so much. It was the perfect amount of time on the boat. It was a lovely experience and well worth the trip. We will definitely be coming back”.
Trips usually take place on Sundays and Luke can be contacted on 07929 244996
Fun facts about seals:
• A group of seals is called a herd or a raft.
• It is not uncommon for a herd to consist of 1,500 seals.
• There are thirty-three different species of seals.
• The layer of fat under a seal’s skin called blubber helps keep it warm in cold water.
• Their whiskers help them detect prey in murky water.
• Their lifespan ranges from twenty-five to thirty years.
• Female seals are called cows, and their babies are called pups. Male seals are called bulls.
• Smaller seals weigh 100 pounds, while the largest seals weigh over 7,000 pounds.
Image Credits: Kt bruce , Bethany Oliver .
Fantastic what a great thing to do.
Just a little tip, DO NOT go near a seal pup, one tried to bite my shoe off, getting too old!!