Perinatal activities in the Grey seal (Halichoerus grypus)

Births and postnatal behaviour were observed at a breeding assembly of Grey seals on North Rona. Birth is extremely rapid and the cow immediately turns to smell the pup. Smelling continues at intervals, particularly during the first 10 min after birth and allows the cow to establish the identity of her pup. She also smells the placenta and defends it against attack by gulls. Disturbance by gulls, neighbouring seals and human intrusion may lead to the cow failing to establish a bond with the pup and consequently abandoning it.