| GPS-Tagged Seal Pup Spotted Thriving in the Wild after 600km Journey
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A grey seal pup rehabilitated at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary has recently been spotted thriving in the wild two months after its release, showcasing incredible natural behaviours and resilience.
The rehabilitated pup was seen by James Savage and Peter Perkins, volunteers with the Seal Research Trust during a survey on the North coast of Cornwall.
| | Photo Credit : Peter Perkins - Seal Research Trust
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The pup named "JP" by a Sanctuary pup sponsor, was fitted with a GPS tracker as part of an exciting trial study run by the University of Exeter in cooperation with the Sanctuary, and has travelled over 600km since his release, including a brief visit to the Isles of Scilly.
| | Photo Credit : James Savage - Seal Research Trust
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Recent data from the tracker shows that the young seal is in excellent health, diving to depths of 100 meters and foraging successfully; showing key indicators of a well-adapted and thriving seal.
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"This is exactly the kind of success story we hope for," said Anne Van Domberg, Senior Animal Care Specialist & Research coordinator at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary.
"Tracking our released pups with GPS trackers allows us to better understand their movements and ensure they are equipped for life in the wild. Seeing this pup exhibit such fantastic natural behaviours is a testament to the care and rehabilitation he received."
As part of its ongoing mission to protect marine life, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary is encouraging the public to visit and meet the pups currently in rehabilitation before they, too, are released back into the wild.
Anne continues, "Spring is the perfect time to visit the Sanctuary, meet the pups in our Seal Hospital and nursery pools, and learn more about our vital conservation work. Unfortunately, each season we admit pups that have been unintentionally separated from their mothers due to human disturbance. Many people simply don´t realise the serious impact their actions can have on a vulnerable pup or a resting mother.
We´re asking our supporters to be our voice, help us raise awareness about responsible wildlife watching, share best practice guidelines on seal disturbance, and educate others on what to do if they find a seal pup while exploring Cornwall´s stunning coastline."
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Those who do see a pup on the beach are advised to:-
- Keep dogs on leads
- Do not to approach or try to chase the seal back into the sea
- Admire from a distance - Stay at least 100m away
- Stay calm and quiet and keep your encounter brief
If you believe the pup is in distress or needs medical attention you can call the Cornish Seal Sanctuary directly on 01326 221361 or British Divers Marine Life Rescue on 01825 765546 for more help and advice.
The Sanctuary is advising all local beachgoers to save these phone numbers into their phone´s contact list, so they have them on hand.
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This February, the Sanctuary is offering a Locals´ Pass, giving residents the chance to visit year-round for a discounted rate.
Exclusively for residents living in TR, EX and PL postcodes, the Sanctuary´s Locals´ pass gives 30% off unlimited entry all year round, with a bonus 20% off in the onsite cafė and gift shop.
Locals´ Passes can be purchased from the Sanctuary´s website or admissions desk, don´t forget to bring proof of address when you collect your pass.
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Press Release issued by the Cornish Seal Sanctuary
For more details, please contact Helene Weston, Marketing Manager, on 01326 221361
Issue Date: 20th February 2025
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