The GSPCA is planning to release two seals back in to the wild, as work continues to build a new wildlife hospital which will include demolishing the charity’s current pool enclosure.
Roar and California Girl, were rescued late last year when both were in a very poor condition but they are recovering well and the animal charity hopes to release them soon.
Geoff George, the Head of Marinee Mammals for the GSPCA, said: “Roar and California Girl who were rescued the end of last year and when rescued were only 15kgs, very dehydrated, thin, had infections and full of worms at a similar age of a month or so old so really should be three times the weight they were are doing very well.”
As the pool enclosure they are staying in is due to be demolished, the GSPCA has acknowledged this has created challenges in the care of these two seals in particular.
The charity had asked for assistance from the RSPCA due to the challenges of caring for the pups with the works to build a new, modern animal hospital at their St.Andrews HQ.
Specifically it no longer has enough pool space for the seal pups, which is crucial for their rehabilitation, as they are vital in helping the seal pups gain weight and fitness before being released.
“They are out in the pools we still have at the GSPCA but soon to lose ahead of the big build,” said Mr George. “We are hoping to release them very soon.”
year ago last week, was released back into the wild in July last year.
The animal charity is still encouraging people to call if they find a seal in trouble, with 41 rescued and released back into local waters over the past 12 years.
Steve Byrne, the GSPCA Manager, said his team truly care for them all
“Geoff and the team have done such an incredible job caring for Roar and California Girl.
“Both seal pups who were so close to perishing are doing extremely well and loving our pools at the GSPCA which will soon be removed to make way for the BIG BUILD and new Wildlife Hospital.”
The animal charity said if you spot a seal pup that looks healthy and shows no signs of distress, you should monitor it from a safe distance for 24 hours. If the mother doesn’t return within that time, call the GSPCA on 257261.
Healthy pups appear plump with no visible neck, while thin pups may look sleek but not bony. Do not touch the seal, as they can bite and cause infections, and keep dogs or other animals away to prevent them from harassing the seal. If the pup is sick, thin, or injured, contact the GSPCA immediately.
When reporting, provide details such as location, condition, and any signs of injury or illness. Always exercise caution when handling any animals and maintain good hygiene. For any questions or to report a seal, call 257261.
The wait for the new hospital
The GSPCA is also keen to find members of the public, businesses or organisations that may be able to help with caring for seal pups whilst the construction of Guernsey’s new wilflife hospital continues.
“As we have our preferred builders, we are now in negotiations with, we are hopeful for a quick turn around for Roar and California Girl ahead of the new build, but we are reaching out to anyone who thinks they can help with certainly this, and next years, seal pup rehab,” said Mr Byrne.
“Although we have areas for triaging the seal pups, it is the pool stage we will not have and this is when we get the weight and fitness into each pup, ready for the wild.”
“We are looking at options but anyone that thinks they could help, we would love to hear from them.”
For advice on what to do if you see or find sick or injured wildlife, or to find out more about, or contact the GSPCA, you can find their website HERE.