A grey seal pup in distress has been rescued at Oare Marshes, thanks to an eagle-eyed visitor and the quick response of local conservation teams.
With the tide out, the young pup appeared stranded, prompting call from Kent Wildlife Trust's Area Warden, Nadia Ward, to the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR). Upon arrival, BDMLR volunteers assessed the pup and found it to be underweight. It has since been taken for rehabilitation before its safe return to the wild.
Oare Marshes, is a stunning nature reserve in Kent, is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including migratory birds, waterfowl, and marine mammals. The area is an important habitat for seals, which can often be seen resting along the estuary. Grey seals, the UK’s largest native seal species, are usually strong swimmers and capable of navigating tides, but pups can sometimes become weak, disoriented, or undernourished, requiring intervention to ensure their survival.
Kent Wildlife Trust extends their thanks to the BDMLR volunteers for their rapid response and to all visitors who kept a safe distance and ensured their dogs stayed away from the pup, helping to minimise stress and prevent injury.
If you encounter a seal in distress, please keep your distance, approaching may cause harm. Instead, contact the Rescue Hotline at 01825 765546.
Nadia Ward