marine conservation

Why You Need a Wildlife Licence to Move a Healthy Seal

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: marine conservation, marine licensing

Britain is home to two species of seals: the grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) and the common or harbour seal (Phoca vitulina). While they usually spend their time lounging on beaches to conserve energy, they occasionally wander into more hazardous environments.   They bounce …

Protecting our marine environment - MPA consultation

On 9 June 2025, we launched our consultation on proposed fisheries management measures for Stage 3 marine protected areas (MPAs). In England, we're fortunate to have a diverse array of marine habitats in our seas. These habitats serve as refuges …

Spotting and reporting Invasive Non-Native marine species

It’s Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) week across the UK – a national effort to raise awareness of the threat invasive species pose to our environment, economy, and native wildlife. For those working on or near the water, especially fishers, you …

What Cornwall’s whale sightings mean for our seas — and how to watch responsibly

Whale breaching credit @Adrian Langdon

This month, Cornwall’s coastline has become a hotspot for whale sightings. This includes humpback whales - large, beautiful and powerful wild animals that can range in length from 14–17 m (46–56 ft) and weigh up to 40 metric tons! These …

Protecting our diverse and valuable seabird species

Little gull in flight

Have you ever been asked to name a UK seabird on the spot? Seagulls probably come to mind first, right? Or maybe you think about those charismatic puffins or bustling ‘seabird cities’ of guillemots.  We’re actually home to some of …

Help shape assessments to ensure harbour porpoise and marine birds are protected

Little tern flock in flight

Can you believe it’s a brand-new year already?  Only last month we launched our latest call for evidence on the impacts of fishing on five English offshore marine protected areas (MPAs). These are the ones designated to protect certain highly …

MMO joins Operation Seabird 2023 and encourages everyone to act responsibly around marine wildlife

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: marine conservation, Uncategorized
seal

Here in the UK we are never far away from the coastline. Our stunning shores, sandy beaches and coastal paths attract millions of visitors every year. This brings an economic boost to local communities, and alongside the growth of staycations …