Seal becomes ‘local celeb’ after returning to same spot on Thames every day

An adorable seal has become a ‘local celeb’ in west London after returning to the same spot every day for a week.

Incredible pictures show the animal relaxing on the bank of the River Thames, near St Paul’s school boathouse in Barnes.

It was first spotted ‘wobbling’ up a ramp to avoid high tides on Tuesday, and has returned to the same area every day since.

The seal has kept itself busy by taking dips in the water and greeting adoring fans over the last five days.

Both grey seals and harbour seals are known to be spotted in the Thames, but it is unusual for one to come back to the same spot.

Freelance photographer Broni Lloyd-Edwards, who took the snaps, told Metro.co.uk she has seen seals from afar before – but to see one close-up was a ‘very special’ experience.

She said: ‘We are so lucky to have these beautiful animals in our river, it’s magical. 

‘The RSPCA was called and they said it looked healthy, but it’s quite unusual that it’s been in the same spot all week, so everyone is just keeping an eye out. 

‘It seemed very calm, and every now and again it went for a dip and came back to its resting place. 

‘I’ve seen many seals in the Thames, and every time it feels like a huge treat… I know rowers and paddle boarders have had seals climbing aboard before.’

A boatman has put up a rope to guard the seal from crowds after news of the residency hit the local community.

Broni says people are keeping their distance from the new ‘local celeb’, adding: ‘We need to protect our little visitor.’

The RSPCA has sent officers to perform checks and says the seal – which is moulting at the moment – seems healthy and calm.

However, officials have warned locals to keep their distance and not try to encourage the animal to return to the water.

A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: ‘It is not unusual for seals to find their way into harbours or rivers such as the Thames and they have been known to travel inland quite some distance. They are often just looking for more food and generally they find their way out to sea again. 

‘We recommend that if a seal is spotted, it should be left alone. Seals can be incredibly strong and powerful wild animals and have a very nasty bite which can cause horrible wounds, which could become infected by the bacteria that live in a seal’s mouth. 

‘We would also ask the public not to get close to seals in order to take pictures or even selfies with them and to keep other animals, such as dogs, away from the seal and keep dogs on leads. 

‘Please do not try to feed the seal as this may do more harm than good and don’t try to encourage seals back into the water as seals may come onto dry land to rest, or if they’re unwell.

‘If you are concerned about them, observe from a distance for at least 24 hours.  If the seal is at risk, is sick or injured, please contact the RSPCA.’

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