WILDLIFE disturbance is on the increase with more people visiting the Ceredigion coastline than ever before, council officers have warned.

Walkers are being advised to keep away from apparently abandoned white fluffy seal pups on beaches or rocky outcrops during the breeding season.

“The mother, however, will probably be close by so it is vital to keep your distance so she can return to her pup to feed it,” said a spokesperson.

“On Monday a seal pup drowned off New Quay which may be the result of disturbance by dog walkers.

“The pup was seen with a female on Dolau Beach early in the morning and dog walkers were advised to keep their distance.

“The seals left the beach and the pup was next seen in the water by the steps at the end of the harbour wall where it was seen at the surface a couple of times before submerging and not resurfacing, presumed drowned.”

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Melanie Heath, SAC Officer for Cardigan Bay, said: “Seal pups need space and time to rest and grow - they are fed by their mothers’ for just three weeks before they have to fend for themselves.

“It is vital that during this time they are given space. Disturbance can lead to abandonment and death.”

Cllr Clive Davies, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration said: “It is very important to remember that these beautiful iconic creatures are wild animals so I urge everyone to follow our Ceredigion Marine Code and keep a distance to enjoy them from afar.

“We are also warning dog owners to keep their dogs away from beaches where seal pups are resting and growing.”