MEMBERS of the public have been warned to keep their distance as a young seal continues to take time to rest on Bournemouth beach.

Over the past week many residents and visitors have spotted the mammal on the seafront.

On Monday the East Dorset RNLI lifeguards spotted the seal to the east of Bournemouth Pier.

The team contacted the British Divers Marine Life Rescue to alert the charity to the mammal's presence on the beach.

Bournemouth Echo: The seal on Bournemouth beach. Picture by Echo Camera Club Dorset member Varun DubeThe seal on Bournemouth beach. Picture by Echo Camera Club Dorset member Varun Dube

An RNLI spokesperson said: "RNLI Lifeguards didn’t get close to the seal; they only observed and advised the public to keep their distance also.

"The BCP Council rangers were present and kept a watchful eye as well."

The British Divers Marine Life Rescue is the UK's leading marine mammal rescue charity.

A spokeswoman for the organisation told the Daily Echo: “A juvenile grey seal has been visiting the area for approximately the last week.

"Our marine mammal medics have checked on the seal several times and at present, there is no need for any veterinary intervention.

"The seal appears to be healthy and is hauling out on beaches to rest as they often do.

Bournemouth Echo: The seal was seen near Bournemouth Pier. Picture by Echo Camera Club Dorset member Varun DubeThe seal was seen near Bournemouth Pier. Picture by Echo Camera Club Dorset member Varun Dube

"We advise that anybody who encounters the animal to keep a distance of 50m minimum and to keep all dogs on leads.

"Seals are wild, unpredictable animals so it’s worth remembering that they can cause injury to people and/or dogs who get too close.

"Our medics will continue to monitor the situation until the seal moves on.”

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