Guernsey Press

GSPCA seals together in ‘household bubble’

RESCUED seal pups at the GSPCA met for the first time on Tuesday.

Published
Formerly socially distant seals have now joined together in one pool at the GSPCA. Image supplied by Steve Byrne. (28243508)

Pebble was rescued from Guernsey shores in February and Andrew from Jersey in November 2018.

Similarly to recent advice on the merging of two household bubbles, Andrew and Pebble are now able to socialise together.

GSPCA ambulance officer and head of marine mammals Geoff George said: ‘Both pups have been able to see one another at a social distance but this is the first time their bubbles have come together. Andrew was one of the youngest ever seal pups. We have had some real challenges with his progress until recently and he is now nearly ready for release. After a little bit of splashing they soon calmed down. It looks like they will be good friends, which will mean hopefully we can release them together very soon.’

Appeals for donations continue with the #GuernseyCoronavirusCrisisAppeal.

GSPCA manager Steve Byrne said: ‘I’m not sure if Deputy Heidi Soulsby, Deputy Gavin St Pier and Dr Nicola Brink would realise that their advice on expanding bubbles would reach the seal pups at the GSPCA but today [on Tuesday] Pebbles and Andrew came together.

‘It’s an especially special moment as it brings Jersey and Guernsey seals together for the first time at the GSPCA.’

Socialising the seal pups offers better chances upon release.

‘When it comes to their release, we know from past releases, pups often stay together. We would normally return Jersey seal pups back to their waters but with social distancing rules this is extremely unlikely.

‘Getting them to become friends gives them a better chance when they are released together.

‘As the youngest pup, Andrew has had the longest ever road to recovery for a seal pup at the GSPCA.

‘He has so many issues, but in recent months has progressed. Now with his new friend Pebble both could soon be back in the wild, increasing their social bubbles further.’

Human diseases can sometimes be transmitted to marine mammals.

Arrivals at the GSPCA are often initially isolated to prevent infection and to monitor behaviour.

Each seal pup requires about 15-20 fresh fish daily.

‘Thankfully, we are through seal pup season now but there are many baby birds being found.

‘Where possible, they are always best raised by their parents. You can always call us 24/7 or check our advice online. Thank you to everyone donating to our #GuernseyCoronavirusCrisisAppeal and towards the seal pups.

‘We will, of course, keep you up-to-date on how they get on.’

n For essential visits contact 01481 257261 or admin@gspca.org.gg beforehand.

Donations can be made via giving.gg/donate/event/5876/GSPCA-Coronavirus-Emergency-Appeal or by telephone or post.