Local photographer captures rare grey seal moment

Photos taken on 26 July at the Point of Ayre

An Atlantic grey seal has been photographed feeding on a harbour porpoise for the first time in Manx waters.

The photos were taken at the Point of Ayre, earlier this summer, by Gary Weightman - of Vannin Photos - who posted them on Facebook.

He had been photographing a large group of seals from a distance, with a long zoom lens he was 'just testing out', and caught the seal eating what could be mistaken for a big fish. 

Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch recognised the tail stock as that of a porpoise and contacted him for further information.

MWDW says: "Grey seals feeding on harbour porpoise has been documented throughout the northern hemisphere but evidence within the British Isles is limited. Documentation exists of both predation and scavenging. 

"In this circumstance, Gary had been photographing the seals for some time and commented on how peaceful the atmosphere was. 

"There was no sign of chase or attack, suggesting that the porpoise was already dead and the seal had come across the carcass.

"This is the first sure evidence of a grey seal feeding on a harbour porpoise in Manx waters, however, back in 2018 MWDW came across the flesh and blubber of a porpoise which appeared indicative of grey seal attack. 

"Photographs were sent off to colleagues at the UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme at the time who confirmed these suspicions."

The charity adds: "Thank you so much to Gary Weightman at Vannin Photos for these amazing images and for accidently documenting this incredible and rarely seen behaviour. 

"Also thank you to Jacqui Keenan at UNESCO Biosphere IOM for bringing the Facebook post to our attention."

Gary told Manx Radio he was shocked to discover his photos were of such scientific significance: