Connections and Conflicts With Seals in a Scottish Archipelago

Orkney, a Scottish archipelago north of the mainland, is home to a deep cultural connection with seals, blending myth and daily life.

Locals often encounter seals resting on rocks or swimming near shores, creating an atmosphere that feels both ordinary and magical.

This relationship is reflected in local shops, which sell trinkets, storybooks, and postcards featuring selkies, mythical creatures that transform between human and seal forms.

The author, an environmental anthropologist, traveled to Orkney in 2023 to study how these myths and real-life interactions influence conservation efforts.

The bond between islanders and seals is complex, involving emotions, livelihoods, and ethical dilemmas about their protection.