MORE than 500 seal pups have been born at Donna Nook – signalling the start of the area's most fantastic natural phenomenon.
Members of Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust anticipate up to 1,500 grey pups will be born at the nature reserve when the same number of mothers come in from the North Sea with 800 bulls.
As reported, last year, 75 pups perished in a "freak" tidal surge which disorientated mothers who were swept by the sea into the dunes – but thankfully it hasn't discouraged these hardy animals from returning to the reserve.
A Trust spokesperson said: "These are one of Britain's largest animals and they're doing what they would naturally do right there in front of us. They chose to come here, this is their show and it is fantastic to see. We are privileged to be able to witness them do this amazing thing.
"Last year, because of the surge, there weren't as many surviving pups but one year like that won't make any difference to these animals."
The reserve was also given a National Lottery grant which they have used to improve the fencing.
The arrival of the seals has thrilled scores of animal lovers, nature enthusiasts and locals already and by the end of birthing season in January, 80,000 visitors will have been to see the seals.
