Did you know that over 5,000 seals live here in Pembrokeshire?

So say regional website Visit Pembrokeshire, who are encouraging nature lovers to treat seals with respect:

“Seals are cute, curious and definitely picture-worthy, but it’s important to remember that they’re wild animals too.”

The National Trust also have something to say on the subject of seals:

“Pretend to be David Attenborough and speak with a low voice and encourage your children to do the same. Noisy dogs and seals do not mix well at all so if your pet is very chatty don’t take it on a visit to a seal breeding area.”

So why all the cautious advice all of a sudden? Because now is the season when white, furry seal pups are being born around our coast. The newborn pups are often left basking on the sand while the mothers go foraging for food for their young so they are very vulnerable.

“Make sure you give seals plenty of space and privacy because any disturbance can threaten the young pups’ lives,” advises Visit Pembrokeshire.

How much space should we give seals?

“Ensure you stay at least 50 metres away from any seals (three London buses in length), advises National Trust Pembrokeshire.

“Never come between a seal and her pup or a seal and the sea. This will cause distress to both the mother and pup.

“Don’t attempt to touch a seal as physical contact with a human can damage a seal for the rest of its life.”

Dogs must be kept on short leads at beaches where seals are present, and keep flying objects like balls or frisbees well away from colonies.

“Witnessing the pupping season from a safe distance is just one example of a wonderful autumn experience,” say Visit Pembrokeshire, who will be featuring all kinds of things to see and do on the wildlife calendar.

And if you do manage to capture a seal pup on camera, don’t forget to send your photograph to the Observer!