BAN THE HOOP!

The Problem with Flying Rings – And How You Can Help

Entanglement is one of the most preventable and painful threats grey seals face today. It’s a cruel, silent killer—often going unnoticed until it’s too late.

Seals, especially young ones, are naturally curious. They investigate floating objects in the sea, play with them, and tragically, can become entangled in plastic debris. One of the most common causes? Flying rings—the doughnut-shaped frisbees used for recreation and by dog owners on beaches.

Once caught around a seal’s neck or body, these rings tighten over time, cutting into the skin, causing deep wounds, infections, starvation, and eventually, death.

What You Can Do Right Now

You have the power to stop this form of suffering with a few simple actions:

Avoid Flying Rings

• Don’t buy or use flying rings—for yourself, your family, or your dog.

• Choose safer alternatives like solid frisbees or ball toys that can’t entangle wildlife.

Remove the Danger

• If you see a flying ring on the beach or in the sea, pick it up.

• If it’s safe, cut the ring in half to prevent any chance of future entanglement.

• Dispose of it responsibly in a bin or recycling point.

Join the Campaign

Help us make Pembrokeshire a “Flying Ring-Free” Zone. This is a local campaign with a global message: small changes can save lives.

One Small Action = A Huge Difference

By removing even a single flying ring, you could be saving a seal’s life. Let’s work together to keep Pembrokeshire’s beaches safe for seals, wildlife, and people alike.