WATCH: La Fregate orphan seal finally released back into the wild

Thursday 21 July 2022

A starved seal pup who washed up at La Frégate after losing her mum in winter has finally returned to the wild after a period of intensive care across the water.

Elisa, as the pup was named, was one of two grey seal pups rescued in Channel Island waters who was successfully released by the GSPCA.

Maverick was rescued near Les Pecquiries on April 5, and Elisa was a white coat when rescued at Le Fregate in mid-November last year. They are the 22nd and 23rd seals returned to the wild by the GSPCA in the last 10 years.

Pictured: Elisa being cared for in Guernsey. (GSPCA)

Both pups were discovered emaciated with other health complications but have now nursed back to health, with both more than doubling their weight.

When seal pups are recued in Jersey, the BDMLR and JSPCA are called out who then work with New Era Veterinary Hospital to stabilise the seals until they can be rehabilitated and released into local waters by the GSPCA.

Steve Byrne, GSPCA Manager, said: “It’s been a really busy seal season with seven seals through our care this season which means we have been and continue to go through a huge amount of fish and proves the need for a new Wildlife Hospital.”

Watch: The pubs were released on Wednesday morning. (GSPCA/YouTube)

Geoff George GSPCA Head of Marine Mammals said every pup rescued requires near constant attention.  

“There is a lot of work that goes into saving a seal pups life and it is always fantastic when we can get them back to the wild,” he said.

 “Earlier this year we released Sizzle, Jagho Herman, and Blueberry, which leaves us now with Luna C from Guernsey and Aurora from Jersey.

“We got to the release site which was Portlet and it was wonderful to see them get back to where they belong… Maverick was much more confident swimming out… Eliza the Jersey seal pup wasn’t so sure and spent much more time in the shallow water.

“At the Shelter Luna C and Aurora are doing well and will hopefully be soon joining their friends when they are ready.”

Pictured: The seals were transported in the GSPCA’s fleet of ‘Animal Ambulances’.

To make a donation to help the seals in the GSPCA’s care you can click HERE.

You can also donate by calling  01481 257261, or by post to GSPCA, Rue des Truchots, St Andrews, Guernsey, GY6 8UD.