Beloved Thames Seal Marmalade Dies

Marmalade, a beloved harbour seal known for her distinctive golden coat, was a frequent visitor to London's River Thames, often seen near Greenwich and Rotherhithe. Her death in May has underscored growing concerns about the well-being of seals in the river. As seal sightings, including those of the rarer harbour seals, increase along the Thames, reaching as far west as Windsor, wildlife charities are pleading with the public to give these animals space.

Charities like Thames Seal Watch and UK Seal Alliance emphasize that seals, while appearing docile, can bite and carry zoonotic diseases. They stress that approaching them causes significant distress, which can be fatal. Seals are transient, moving up to 80 miles daily in search of fish stocks. Despite an estimated 3,500 seals in the Thames, predominantly grey seals, there are calls for stronger legal protections.

Currently, seals are not fully protected from disturbance under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The UK Seal Alliance launched a campaign to push for legislative changes, as seals are highly sensitive to disturbances from people, pets, and drones, which can lead to abandonment, injury, and wasted energy. While the government states existing laws protect seals from harm, campaigners argue for more robust measures.

Marmalade's death prompted a small memorial by volunteers near the University of Greenwich, where flowers were thrown into the river and a plaque was placed. Her presence had helped attract new volunteers to the charity, and her memory inspires a continued commitment to protecting London's wildlife.