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Rare seal pup rescued from Guernsey's east coast

A rare seal pup has been rescued from near the Children's Bathing Pools on Guernsey's east coast.

The GSPCA says the common seal pup is extremely uncommon in our waters, with the last one washed ashore in 2018.

Grey seal pups are often recovered and taken into the shelter's care.

The common - or harbour seal, which is severely underweight, is now receiving specialist care from the wildlife charity.

It is believed to be just a couple of weeks old.

Geoff George, GSPCA Head of Marine Mammals, said:

"Common seal pups are incredibly rare visitors to Guernsey and this little one is very underweight for its age.

"When we arrived there was no sign of its mother and it was clear the pup needed assistance.

"It has now been safely transported to the GSPCA where we can assess its condition, provide supportive care and give it the best possible chance of recovery."

Common seals, also known as harbour seals, are one of two native seal species found around the British Isles.

Pups are born with a waterproof coat and can swim almost immediately after birth.

During the first few weeks of life they rely heavily on their mother's rich milk and can gain weight rapidly when feeding successfully. Without regular feeding, young pups can quickly become weak and dehydrated.

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