Seaside Stories: Life at Min y Don, Llandudno and Beyond

This morning, as I walked along the North Shore Promenade, I was reminded just how closely our lives brush up against the wild. There, resting quietly on the Jetty, was a lone adult seal—so exposed, so vulnerable, and so heartbreakingly beautiful. It was a gentle nudge that our coastal wildlife doesn’t always choose the safest or quietest places to rest.

We have now entered seal pupping season here in North Wales—a truly magical time when grey seals return to our shores to give birth. Their pups, wrapped in creamy white fur, dot the coastline like scattered pearls. It’s a sight that never fails to stir something deep: wonder, gratitude, and a sense of responsibility.

But with nature’s magic comes responsibility.

With strong winds expected, some pups may become separated from their mums or end up in exposed areas like promenades, jetties, or busy beaches. If you come across a seal pup—especially one that seems alone or vulnerable—please:

• 🐾 Keep your distance.
  Even quiet observation can be overwhelming for a pup.
• 🐕 Keep people and dogs away, and reduce noise to avoid further distress.
• 📞 Contact BDMLR (British Divers Marine Life Rescue) for expert help:
  📱 Call 01825 765546
  🌐 Visit www.bdmlr.org.uk

These pups aren’t necessarily abandoned. These young seals rely on extended, uninterrupted sleep to regulate their body temperature, conserve energy, and grow strong. Even brief disturbances can cause stress or separation from their mothers. Their mums may be out feeding, and intervening too soon can do more harm than good. BDMLR’s trained volunteers know exactly what to look for and how to help.

At Min y Don, we’re lucky to be nestled between sea and sky, surrounded by nature’s quiet miracles. Seal pupping season is one of the most special—and fragile—times of year. Let’s protect it together, with care, respect, and a little distance.

We don’t usually share multiple posts in a single week, but this felt quietly urgent—a gentle reminder to tread carefully and look out for those who can’t speak for themselves.

#SealSeason #NorthWalesWildlife #BDMLR #LlandudnoCoastCare #RespectWildlife #MinyDonMoments #MinydonLlandudno #VisitConwy #VisitWales