Sandy Sealcam goes live for 2017

With Atlantic Grey seals hauling up on beaches around Orkney to give birth to their fluffy white pups, Orkney’s unique Sanday Sealcam is once again poised to capture all the drama.

Between the hours of 7am and 11pm each day, a live broadcast from the island’s pupping beaches will allow viewers to an insight into the lives of the seals — from fighting males and defensive females to amorous encounters, new arrivals and the inevitable tragedies.

The project is managed by the Sanday Development Trust’s Ranger, Emma Neave-Webb, and set-up and maintained by Orkney-based Triscom Technology Ltd. 

Commenting on the success of the project, Emma said, “It has a hard task to stream the camera using remote, rural broadband, but Triscom have worked miracles to get the camera up and running in time for the new arrivals, with high-quality live footage successfully being streamed onto the web.

“The Sanday sealcam allows visitors a unique opportunity to see Orkney’s amazing wildlife up close and personal, and follow the highs and lows of an Orkney seal colony during pupping season from the comfort of their armchair — perfect for those unable to visit the island in person.”

The Sanday Sealcam receives funding from Scottish Natural Heritage and, this year was also made possible with sponsorship from Serco Northlink Ferries.

The live feed for the Sanday Sealcam is available at the Sanday Ranger website here.