Attacks by seals on humans are very rare
© Devon Live WSAttacks by seals on humans are very rare
A swimmer was taken to hospital after being attacked by a seal off the Devon coast yesterday.

The incident prompted immediate warnings for swimmers to keep clear of seals, which may have been trying to protect pups at the time.

Devon Live reported that the swimmer was injured at Shoalstone Pool, near Brixham.

Seals are a familiar sight in the waters off Brixham.

There have been regular encounters in the harbour and at nearby Fishcombe and Churston coves.

Torbay's RNLI volunteers posted on social media: "Warning to anyone thinking of swimming off the rocks outside the Shoalstone Pool or in that general area of coastline today.

"A person has been attacked by a seal there this morning and has been taken to hospital for treatment.

"So don't swim in that area and stick to the sea pool itself which is safe and supervised by a lifeguard.

"Please share with anyone who you think may be likely to swim in the area."

Sue Sayer of the Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust said that such incidents are highly rare but some caution must be exercised around seals.

She said: "Obviously we do not encourage people to deliberately seek out seals to swim with, but if seals approach you then that is fine as the encounter is on their terms.

"They have a similar level of intelligence to a dog. Whilst they are strong and powerful with huge teeth these are highly unlikely to be used aggressively towards you - playfully yes, but even then they can be incredibly gentle.

"If you remain calm, quiet and assertive in the water you will have the best experiences and be least likely to frighten them. When frightened though they are more likely to flight than fight when given an escape route.