New lives at shooting ranges

There is a place in the North East coast of England that harbours the biggest European breeding colony of grey seals. During the winter months, thousands of seals come together to give birth to their pups, nurse them and get pregnant once again. Their chosen place is an immense beach of various kilometres in length that belongs to RAF (Royal Air Force), the UK’s aerial warfare force. This beach is utilised as a shooting range by the air force, so fighters and military helicopters continuously patrol it. Although it may seem paradoxical that the seals choose a place like this to give birth in, the fact that it is a military occupation is advantageous in that the access to civilians is restricted. Therefore, this area is calmer than other surrounding beaches, that are often crowded with people, dogs, etc… and as a result the seals feel more at ease and safe. During the breeding season, by the way, the target practice at the beach is halted.