Video of seal pup being chased into Fife sea condemned by police
The footage was uploaded to social media
A video of a seal pup being chased by members of the public in East Neuk of Fife is sparking concern among authorities.
The footage, showing the animal retreating into the sea, was reported to police after being uploaded to social media.
Officers are warning coastal visitors to be considerate of seals, and that chasing them could endanger their safety.
Fife's Wildlife Crime Liaison Officer, Ben Pacholek, said: “Whilst the majority of visitors to Fife’s coastal beaches are mindful of the resident wildlife, I’d ask that everyone keep a respectful distance from any wild mammals and sea birds.
"It is worth remembering that seals are semi-aquatic animals and the time they do spend on land is often important for them to sleep, conserve energy and digest food.
"Scotland’s seal population is a protected species and intentionally or recklessly disturbing seals when they are resting on land can be a criminal offence."
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