The Natural World
South East Cornwall gives those with an interest in the natural world, plenty of locations to catch sight of flora and fauna, be it on land or at sea. With its varied coastline, estuarys and rivers there is never a shortage of things to see including many varieties of birds.
There are several wildlife reserves, managed by Cornwall Wildlife Trust dotted about the region, including Looe Island. For more information click here.
A great way to get close to nature is to explore the rockpools along the shoreline. A whole world of mini-beasts can be found in just one pool, everything from prawns to starfish. Please remember to put anything caught back into the pool before you leave. Organised Rock Pool Rambles take place throughout the year, again check with Cornwall Wildlife Trust for the next event.
SEALS
Looe Harbour is said to be one of the easiest places to see a wild Grey Seal in the whole of the UK and you get a chance to see the seals ‘up close and personal’, which is a real privilege.
The seals that you see in and around the harbour are Grey Seals, one of the rarest seal species in the world. The UK has 40% of the World’s Grey Seals, so we have an international responsibility to look after them. Despite looking tame and spending varying amounts of time in Looe Harbour, these seals are still part of the wild seal population and have been spotted at seal haul out sites elsewhere around the Cornish coast.
One of the first things you notice is just how big these seals are. The average length for an adult Grey Seal is 2.3 metres and they weigh in at around 230 kilograms. Their elastic and flexible body makes for graceful agility in the water and masks the huge power of these animals. Even on land, a human would have a challenge to outrun a seal!
To get an idea of how big the seals can get, take a walk along West Looe Quay to view the sculpture of 'Nelson'. He lived in and around the harbour for many years, living on a diet of fish thrown from the fishing boats as they returned from sea. Named 'Nelson' because he only had one eye, he became popular with locals and visitors alike, popping up beside ferry boats and alongside the pier. After his death it was decided that he should be 'honoured' by the town and money was raised for the scuplture to be created.
Always keep your distance. Grey Seals can lunge their telescopic necks and snap a full set of very large, sharp & interlocking teeth at you. Diseases can be transmitted between humans, seals and dogs. Always report contact and injuries to get medical advice.
Looe Voluntary Marine Conservation Agency run events throughout the year including seal surveys and rock pool rambles, for more info Looe VMCA
