Whitehaven’s Stella the seal appears to have made a return to the town’s harbour.
The sea creature was spotted over the coronation weekend and has remained in the harbour since, giving people a chance to snag photos and videos.
The seal has been spotted swimming around in the Marina and resting on the slipway and was last seen yesterday evening.
While seals and their colonies are common around Cumbria’s coast, they avoid interaction with humans, making them unusual to spot.
When Stella was first spotted, Whitehaven’s Coastguard and Rescue team posted the following advice for people wanting to photograph the seal.
A spokesman said: “Please be mindful there are laws across the UK for the Protection and Conversation of Seals. Importantly, you must not disturb them and should only observe from a distance (at least 100 metres), otherwise this may stop them from doing what they need to do – rest.
“Seals frequently haul out of the water for a number of reasons; to digest their food, rest and regain strength after stormy seas, for pupping and nursing.
“We hope you enjoy seeing these mammals, but please observe from a distance.”
Seals can be disturbed by noise, including human voices and boat engines as well as the sight of kayaks and boats coming too close to them.
Disturbed seals will lift their heads and bulge their eyes revealing the white parts around the iris and they will often quickly move towards the sea.
The Wildlife Trust advises that spotting these signs means the viewer must move slowly out of sight, as they are already too close.
The Wildlife and Countryside Act prohibits interference with places used for shelter or protection, or intentionally disturbing animals occupying such places.
