A CROWDFUNDING campaign to help protect a globally rare species living in Cornwall has just eight days left to reach its target.

Seals are one of the South West’s key marine wildlife attractions that contribute to tourist income and help diversify Cornish coastal economies.

For 20 years, Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust (CSGRT) has been giving seals a voice to protect them and their important ocean home. They use photo identification to recognise individual seals from their unique fur patterns, and this data informs future policy, education and inspiration. CSGRT’s dedicated Marine Rangers work hard to support a large volunteer network to do scientific research. And each year, thousands of people connect with CSGRT’s Marine Rangers in schools and at events, to learn about marine conservation and ocean optimism.

But this year, due to Covid-19 and the cancellation of all the group’s events, CSGRT faces a £50,000 shortfall and the potential loss of its marine rangers.

A Crowdfunder appeal has been launched and has reached 75% of its target of £20,000 in just a few days.

If it’s successful, the appeal will mean the group can keep its Marine Rangers for 12 months, giving them more time to do their pioneering Photo ID, coastal monitoring, volunteer training, school activities, public events, reports, consultations and policy recommendations.

Giving her backing to the appeal is Springwatch presenter and Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust Gillian Burke.

She said: ’Seals are marine mammals but they are connected to the land. Every time they haul out, they’re like messengers – they bring back news of the state of our oceans. They act like sentinel species.

’Here in the UK we’re incredibly lucky. We play host to almost a third of the whole world’s grey seal population. That’s a huge responsibility. It’s an amazing thing to have on our doorstep. As such they really deserve our care and protection.’

To support the Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust and find out how you can get involved and learn more about our resident grey seals visit