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Seal seen relaxing on land near Maidstone East railway station bridge

By: Charlotte Phillips cphillips@thekmgroup.co.uk

Published: 14:38, 04 October 2023

A seal has been spotted out of water in a town for the second time this week.

Danilson Gomes was cycling from Maidstone to Halling at around 6.45am today when he saw the animal “casually relaxing” by the River Medway.

A seal has been spotted in Maidstone for the second time this week. Picture: Danilson Gomes

It was by Maidstone East railway station bridge, close to Maidstone United FC.

On Monday, a seal was seen relaxing on land next to the river near Maidstone town centre, not far from today’s sighting.

One passer-by referred to it as “adorable” and “a cutie”.

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Animal experts were called to check on the animal and are not concerned, but say people should keep their distance.

Charity British Divers Marine Life Rescue – which deals with all kinds of marine wildlife emergencies but especially seals – has advised people to avoid interacting with the wild animal.

A spokesman said: “We were made aware of the seal in Maidstone on Sunday night and again on Monday morning.

A seal was spotted near Millenium River Park in Maidstone on Monday. Picture: Alena Bryen

“We did go out to check on it but it had already returned to the river.

“It's not uncommon for seals to come through the centre of Maidstone and they have been seen as far up as East Farleigh. The seals come through Allington Lock and often stay for several weeks.

“Seals spend a lot of time on land and should not be disturbed. Interaction with people and dogs should be avoided.”

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