Say cheese! First Atlantic grey seal pups of the season spotted off Northumberland coast

These sweet snaps of the first Atlantic grey seal pups of the season on the Farne Islands will bring a smile to your Wednesday.

Around half of the rare seal species are thought to live in British and Irish waters, with the Farnes, off the Northumberland coast, being home to one of the largest colonies in England. As the first Atlantic greys of the season showed themselves to the cameras, their appearance triggers the start of the seal pup count by National Trust rangers on the islands. See the sea mammals in action with these beautiful pictures.

9. Hard at work

Ranger Thomas Hendry said: A lack of predators and a plentiful supply of fish – has helped bolster our seal pup numbers in recent years. | Other 3rd Party Photo: NNP