An RSPCA wildlife centre in Somerset has successfully rehabilitated and released its first rescued seal pups of the season. The pups, cared for at the West Hatch Wildlife Centre in Taunton, were set free at Combe Martin Beach in North Devon, marking the culmination of months of dedicated care.
The seals were rescued from various locations across the South West and Wales during the latter part of 2024. Each pup arrived in need of urgent help and was nursed back to health by the skilled wildlife rehabilitation team.
The centre's main goal is to ensure the seals are healthy, strong, and fit enough to thrive back in their natural environment. Seal pup rescue and rehabilitation are especially busy during 'seal pup season,' which runs from September to March.
When pups first arrive at the centre, they are cared for in intensive care pens. As they recover, gain weight, and learn to feed independently, they are transferred to larger pools to build their strength. Rehabilitation can take several months with an average stay of 12 weeks, and each seal's progress is carefully monitored.
Charmingly, the team gives each rescued seal a themed name. This year, the seals were named after popular ice creams, including 'Mini Milk' and 'Nobbly Bobbly.' The naming tradition helps to engage the public and foster a connection with the animals.
Through their work, the RSPCA aims to highlight the challenges wildlife faces in modern environments and the importance of conservation. To support this mission, the charity has launched 'The Seal Diaries,' an online resource that introduces children to their rehabilitation efforts in an engaging way.
Emma Jacobs, the project's lead photographer, emphasised the importance of public awareness. The charity also encourages the public to learn how to responsibly assist seal pups that might appear in distress.
If you see a seal pup that looks like it needs help, do not approach it. Keep dogs on leads near beaches with seal colonies and contact wildlife experts for advice. If you suspect a seal needs rescuing, call the RSPCA's emergency line.
Through public awareness and dedicated rehabilitation efforts, the RSPCA continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of seals and other wildlife. To support the RSPCA's mission and help them rescue and release more animals, you can join their 'Winter Rescue' campaign on their website.
The RSPCA West Hatch Wildlife Centre is open daily for animal admissions and offers wildlife advice through their phone line.