Overview

The Island has a large seal population, of both grey and common, which inhabit Manx waters year round.

Grey seals, which have a dog-like head, can be seen in their masses throughout the year so you should be lucky enough to spot them whenever you visit.

Make sure you visit the Sound at the Island’s most southerly tip as the seals often surround the small rocky inlet known as Kitterland either sunbathing or swimming.

As well as being a prime bathing spot for the seals, this island can often represent something of a nursery in the autumn as female seals often give birth to their fluffy white pups here.

The Isle of Man is also home to a number of common seals, which normally frequent the south east coast of Britain. These are seen more infrequently and in smaller numbers but try Langness or Peel for a chance to catch a glimpse.

Suggestions

The east and south coasts of the Isle of Man are some of the best places to spot seals during your visit to the Island.

Try Peel in the west where seals are often spotted swimming behind the ancient ruins of Peel Castle, and in the sheltered bay, or Langness near to the ancient capital of Castletown where seals can often be seen bobbing near to the shoreline.

The Island’s seal population can often be inquisitive and will make their presence known if you are kayaking or diving around the areas they inhabit.

The Manx Society for the Protection of Animals (MSPCA) rescues injured seals and those that are washed up on shore in bad weather. Visit the organisation's headquarters at Ard Jerkyll in Foxdale where you will be able to see the purpose built seal enclosure and learn about how the staff nurse them back to health.