More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
A "very poorly" seal pup has been saved after it was found injured and severely underweight on a Kent beach.
The young mammal was discovered at Dumpton Gap in Broadstairs early this morning.
The injured seal was discovered this morning. Video: Amber Wheeler
Amber Wheeler, who lives in the town, had been taking a sunrise walk along the beach with her mum when they encountered the pup.
"We came across a lovely man who had found the seal," she said.
"He asked if we had a phone to contact a rescue as the poor seal had a laceration under its chin.
"The seal tried to make it to sea but soon became exhausted."
The pup couldn't make it to the sea. Video: Amber Wheeler
Chris, Amber and her mum Julie stayed with the seal for about half-an-hour until help arrived.
"The British Divers Marine Life Rescue charity came and a lovely volunteer couple called Jez and Sheila took him to a rescue centre in Hastings," said Amber.
"The poor thing would have died as it was left by its mother."
BDMLR spokesman Julia Cable says the pup was a male harbour seal which weight just 12kg - which is around birth weight.
"At this time of year we would expect them to be at least double that if they had been able to feed successfully," she said.
"This seal pup is very poorly and has some nasty mouth infections which we are seeing in these animals throughout England, specifically the east coast at the moment.
"He will be examined by a veterinary surgeon this morning and they will decide what the next steps will be."
Seal pups are often found on the beach at this time of year, and BDMLR says they should not be approached.
"Dogs and children should be kept away, for their safety and the seal's," said Ms Cable.
"Our rescue hotline is open round the clock so we can offer advice or send a volunteer to check the seal."
Contact BDMLR's hotline on 01825 765546. Alternatively, visit the charity's website for advice and information.
Escaped animals, unusual finds and news from the RSPCA can all be found here.
