The bloodthirsty behaviour has been observed among seal populations in Europe and researchers fear it may now hit Britain’s shores.
The gory discovered was revealed by a team of marine conservation experts who have been scouring the Greater Thames Estuary as the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) for the mammals.
This summer marks its fourth annual seal survey of the animals’ behaviour and population.
Projects Manager Joanna Barker said: “This is the fourth year in a row that we’ve conducted a comprehensive survey of seal populations in the Thames, but from a conservation point of view it’s one of the most important surveys yet.
“It’s a really interesting time to study seals in the UK. Firstly, grey seal numbers have rapidly increased over the last 15 years, especially along the east coast of England, which is good news for the species.”
VIDEO: These cannibalistic grey seals feast on their smaller cousins