Remarkable Return: Cornwall Seal Spotted After 16-Year Absence

Photo: The photo above was taken with a superzoom 3000mm Nikon P1000 camera, leaving these young adults to frolic undisturbed.

In a stunning development that has left marine researchers and conservationists both surprised and elated, an adult female seal, known by her identification number S107 and whimsically nicknamed “Square blobs alien,” has been spotted off the coast of West Cornwall for the first time in 16 years. The Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust, a dedicated team focused on the study and preservation of marine life, announced this heartening news, marking a significant moment in their long-term Photo ID work.

S107 was first identified back in 2003, a memorable year when she was seen with a pup, signalling her maturity and contribution to the seal population’s continuity. However, after her last sighting on March 13, 2007, she vanished from the researchers’ radar, leading to fears about her fate. The absence of sightings over such an extended period often spells a grim outlook for marine animals, given the myriad challenges they face in the wild, from environmental threats to human interference.

The surprise sighting on December 26, 2023, by the Trust’s Director, Sue, has therefore been met with a mix of shock and joy. It is not only a testament to the seal’s resilience and survival but also highlights the critical importance of continuous monitoring and research efforts in understanding and safeguarding marine ecosystems. S107’s reappearance after all these years, looking “fit and well,” raises fascinating questions about her journey during the time she was unobserved. While the specifics of her whereabouts and activities remain a mystery, her survival underscores the adaptability and resilience of marine life in the face of adversity.

This incredible story of survival and rediscovery serves as a poignant reminder of the value of long-term wildlife research and the contributions such efforts make toward enhancing our understanding of marine biology and ecology. The Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust has seized this opportunity to appeal for public support for their Photo ID project, which is crucial in tracking the life histories of individual seals and contributing to broader conservation strategies.

The The Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust‘s work, reliant on public donations and volunteer support, underscores a broader narrative about the interconnectedness of human efforts and wildlife conservation. Stories like that of S107 not only enrich our understanding of the natural world but also inspire continued commitment to its protection.

For those moved by S107’s story and interested in supporting the Trust’s ongoing research and conservation efforts, contributions can be made through their designated donation channels. Such support is vital for ensuring that more incredible survival stories can be discovered, documented, and learned from, contributing to the preservation of marine life for future generations.