With stormy winter weather setting in, the GSPCA has rescued two underweight seal pups – including one christened Blizzard – after they were found abandoned and underweight near the shooting range.
The charity said that both pups are now receiving 24/7 care and rehydration fluids in a temporary facility while the GSPCA’s new wildlife hospital is under construction.
According to the GSPCA, the pups are roughly half their ideal body weight for their age, and the public is encouraged to report any further sightings of seals in distress.
Steve Byrne, the GSPCA Manager said: “Both pups are in our temporary seal pup area we have made while our new wildlife hospital continues to be built.”
“Both pups are very poorly and should be for their age at around 2-3 weeks be over 40kgs in weight.”
“We are at the start of the seal pup season and with the stormy weather this time of year we have no doubt there will be others needing our help and if you do see a seal in trouble please call us on 257261.”
The animal charity are currently in the process of their “Big Build”, which will see a brand new Wildlife Hospital for the treatment of sick and injured animals in the Bailiwick.
As of October, all the buildings at the St Andrew’s headquarters that were due to be replaced have been demolished. With work underway on the new construction.
This has had an impact on the charity, with the GSPCA having successfully appealed for help in finding appropriate places to provide the necessary care for Seals in particular.
Mr Byrne continued: “In the last 14 years we have managed to rescue and release an incredible 45 back into local waters.
“Although we don’t have our traditional seal facilities as they were demolished earlier this year, we have created a fantastic area while the Wildlife Hospital is being built.”
SUPPORT…
The GSPCA’s build is hoped to be finished by the end of next year, and the charity continues to appeal for support through initiatives such as the “Buy-A-Brick” campaign, which helps fund construction and essential supplies.
For more information or to support the appeal, visit gspca.org.gg or email steve@gspca.org.gg.