52 animals were admitted in the first 5 months of 2008. Thankfully, seal arrivals fell slightly when compared with the same period as last year; 16 of the 22 cared for were grey seals (Haliochoerus grypus) and 6 were common seals (Phoca vitulina). 2 of the grey seals were badly tangled in netting and one of the common seals was born prematurely. Other mammal arrivals were rabbits, foxes and badgers (more about them later). The remaining casualties included a jackdaw (which has a damaged wing so has been given sanctuary here), a swan, a gannet and a nestling tawny owl. Young owls naturally leave their nest before they can fly so although they should not normally be ‘saved’, it is inevitable that some get themselves into scrapes where they need human help. This one was about 3 weeks old when it arrived in March but has progressed well and should be ready for release this summer.
Tags: animal, care, mablethorpe, rescue, Sanctuary, Seal, Seals, The Seal Sanctuary, welfare