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What to do if you see a marine mammal in the river?

Every year reports are received of seals in need of rescue in the tidal Thames where they are hauling out, resting on mudflats or pontoons.

Never approach animals. Keep any pets with you under your control. You could cause the animal distress and put yourself in danger as water level rise rapidly on the Thames.

• If the animal looks happy and healthy – admire the animal from a distance. Report your sightings to the ZSL via their marine mammal sightings form.
• If you are unsure on the health of the animal. Report the slighting to PLA Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) on +44 (0)208 855 0315
• If the animal is dead. Please report you sighting to the PLA VTS on +44 (0)208 855 0315 who will work with the Cetacean Stranding Investigation Programme (CSIP) on 0800 6520333.
• Urgent incidents such as collisions, contact, grounding, pollution/sheen, animal in distress, sunk/abandoned vessels, may have a serious environmental impact and require an immediate response -- Click here for details on where to call.