Drones used to count seals on Jersey reef

Wildlife experts are using drones to count the number of seals on Jersey's Ecrehous reef.

There had been concerns that visitors could disturb seals, especially when young animals were feeding.

Kevin McIlwee, chairman of Jersey Marine Conservation (JMC), said using drones was a non-intrusive way to keep an eye on the seal population.

JMC has identified between 15 and 20 seals on one part of the reef.

Mr McIlwee said: "We are flying drones at about 300ft (91m) so it is not intrusive.

"The seals are not disturbed because it is not a threat whereas a boat would be."

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