Grey seals are the focus of a large number of groups, each with different interests:

• Government: a political question.

• Conservationists: a nature question.

• Scientists: a biological/ecological question.

• Fishing communities: an economic question.

• Humanitarians: an animal welfare question.

• General public: a social/cultural question.

• Other countries: an international question.

Once again, this reminds us how complex and integrated issues of sustainability are. Hotly contested contemporary animals reflect deeply held and intertwined historical forces, both natural and cultural.

The same can be true for all types of heritage – including cultural landscapes, to which we now turn.