What was the size of the fishing net that entangled the seal?

The fishing net measured 30.7 meters and weighed 23.5 kilograms, making it the largest single item of pollution from which a live seal has been freed.

Where was the seal rescued from and what was its condition?

The seal was rescued from Gyllyngvase Beach in Falmouth and was released back into the sea with no serious injuries.

What type of fishing gear is believed to be the source of the large net?

The net found in Falmouth is believed to be part of mid-water trawl gear.

Home / Environment / Seal Rescued From Record Fishing Net

Seal Rescued From Record Fishing Net

8 Feb

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Summary

Young grey seal rescued from 30.7m fishing net on Falmouth beach.
Net weighed 23.5kg, largest single pollution item BDMLR removed.
Seal released unharmed, highlighting marine litter dangers.

A young grey seal found struggling on Gyllyngvase Beach in Falmouth was rescued after becoming entangled in an exceptionally large fishing net. The red netting measured an astonishing 30.7 meters and weighed 23.5 kilograms, marking it as the largest single piece of marine pollution from which the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) has ever freed a live seal.

The animal was considered incredibly fortunate to have been rescued so quickly. Members of the BDMLR response team, alerted by the public, collaborated with two Cornish Seal Sanctuary staff who lived nearby. Their joint efforts allowed the seal to be released back into the sea without sustaining any serious injuries.

BDMLR believes the retrieved net was part of mid-water trawl gear and emphasizes that entanglement in marine litter poses a significant threat to seals and other wildlife. The charity noted that this rescue occurred on the same date as a previous record in 2022, when a 11m net was removed.