This posturing pinniped was afforded an exclusive section of beach on which to recline, as the sun set on the Suffolk coast.
Unabashed by the presence of upright mammals, the seal loped ashore for a leisurely evening loll – striking a few playful poses for onlookers, including Andrew Whinney, who caught the moment on camera.
A short stretch of beach, close to the pier, was sectioned off by the Felixstowe mobile coastguard as the seal dawdled in the fading light.
Marine mammal rescuers were also called to the beach – in case the seal became stranded and needed help returning to the sea.
But, after a brief rest and few waves to spectators, the seal shuffled back to the water of its own accord.
Seals are semi-aquatic and regularly leave the water to digest their food or rest on shore. The RSPCA advises the public to never get too close or attempt to put a seal back in the sea.
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