CONSERVATION ISSUES: The main predator of the grey seal is man. They used to be shot to protect the interests of the fishing industry until legislation was brought in to offer them protection. Occasionally grey seals are caught in fishing nets.

Protecting Legislation:

• Schedules 5, 6 and 7 of the Wildlife (NI) Order 1985
  
• Appendix III of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention)
  
• Annex II and V of the European Union Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (Habitats and Species Directive).
  
  

© Jon Russ 2001. Text refereed by Judith Montgomery-Watson.

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