Young seal rescued from Fleetwood beach returned to wild after months of rehabilitation
A young seal rescued from a Fleetwood beach last summer has been returned to the wild after a successful rehabilitation, rescuers have confirmed.
Samosa, a male common seal found stranded and underweight in August, has now been released back to sea following months of specialist care.
HM Coastguard Fleetwood shared the “seal pupdate” this week, confirming Samosa had fully recovered after being helped during the initial rescue.
The pup was taken into care after being assessed by marine mammal medics and transferred to the RSPCA via British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR).
At the time of his rescue, Samosa weighed just 10kg and required urgent veterinary attention.
By September, RSPCA staff reported he was eating independently and preparing to move into an outdoor seal pool as part of his recovery.
Now, the charity has confirmed he is back where he belongs.
A spokesperson for RSPCA Stapeley Grange said: “What a special week! Grey seals Miss Piggy and Oscar the Grouch, along with common seals Tandoori and Samosa, have all been returned to the wild.
“After months in our care, there’s nothing more rewarding for our team than seeing these amazing animals head back home where they belong.”
The Coastguard also used the update to remind the public that live stranded marine mammals do not officially fall under its remit, although crews may assist if there is a risk to human life or safety.
This differs from their responsibility to attend and report dead cetaceans.
People who find a live stranded marine mammal are urged to contact British Divers Marine Life Rescue on 01825 765546 and keep a safe distance.
Members of the public should not attempt to return an animal to the sea, as stranded seals are often sick, injured or disoriented and require professional assessment.
Experts also advise keeping dogs and crowds away to reduce stress on the animal.
For coastal emergencies posing a risk to human safety, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.