Two rehabilitated seal pups were released back in to the wild on Saturday – bringing to a close a successful chapter for the GSPCA.
The animal welfare charity has rescued and rehabilitated 45 seals over the past 14 years – but Swish and Wide Awake were the last two to be released before their enclosure at the GSPCA’s base in St Andrew’s is demolished.
The charity has started work on building a new animal welfare centre with dedicated facilities for different creatures that meet modern day standards. This will include an area for marine mammals such as seals, who need help to survive and thrive.
That work is costing millions of pounds with fundraising continuing to pay for the work, said GSPCA Manager Steve Byrne.
He said the release of Swish and Wide Awake on Saturday was an emotional moment for his team, who have nursed the two seals to health – led by Head of Marine Mammals Geoff George.
“This is always such an emotional moment and the weather and tide was perfect, said Mr Byrne, after the seals were released at Rocquaine.
“After months of care, it’s incredible to see these amazing animals return to where they truly belong—wild and free in our beautiful Channel Island waters.”
“Every seal is special, and Swish and Wide Awake are no exception.”
There was a touch of sadness in the air as the GSPCA team remembered two other seal pups, also rescued earlier this year, who sadly did not survive.
Swish, Wide Awake, Fireworks, and Dark Horse were all severely emaciated when they were rescued.
Fireworks and Dark Horse had suffered from other health complications too and were unable to be saved.
Mr Byrne said all together it has been a “particularly poignant” time for the GSPCA.
“…these will be the final seals to be cared for in the GSPCA’s old rehabilitation facilities, which have now reached the end of their life,” he said.
“Temporary housing was created at the GSPCA base in St Andrews to ensure the seals received the best possible care during the transition.”
“The GSPCA continues to appeal for support and donations to help make the Big Build a reality and ensure animals like Swish and Wide Awake have the facilities they need to thrive during recovery,” he added.