From Jersey Shores to a Second Chance
Two seal pups rescued in Jersey have been released back into the wild after months of specialist care at a UK animal hospital.
The pups, named Sal and Bean, were initially rescued by British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) Jersey in November 2025, before being transferred to the South Essex Wildlife Hospital for rehabilitation.
Found Alone and Struggling
The two seals were discovered on opposite sides of the island, both in serious trouble.
Female pup Sal was first spotted at St Catherine’s Breakwater, resting on the slipway.
Male pup Bean was found at L’Etacq, dangerously close to the road during high tide.
At the time of rescue, both pups weighed just 15–16kg (33–35lb) and were severely underweight and dehydrated.
Why Help Was Urgent
Rescuers said the pups would not have survived on their own at such a low weight. Without immediate intervention, their chances in the wild were slim.
Because Jersey lacks facilities for long-term specialist seal care, the pups were flown by private plane to the South Essex Wildlife Hospital for treatment.
Months of Care and Recovery
At the hospital, Sal and Bean spent two months recovering under close supervision.
During that time, teams worked to restore their health, helping them gain weight and rebuild strength. The seals were also taught how to hunt and feed independently, a crucial step before release.
A Secret Release Back to the Sea
Once fully recovered, the seals were ready to return home.
On 8 January, hospital teams transported Sal and Bean to a secret coastal location, ensuring minimal human contact and maximum safety.
Sue Schwar, founder of South Essex Wildlife Hospital, explained the process:
“That’s the whole point of rehabilitating any wild animal — to get it back into the wild as soon as possible.”
She added that once animals reach a healthy weight and show no health concerns, they are released without delay.
A Happy Goodbye
When the kennel doors were opened, the seals wasted no time.
They flopped into the water and quickly disappeared into the sea, clearly eager to begin their next chapter.
“I’m so delighted they’ve gone off for a good old swim,” Schwar said. “In a nice way, I hope we don’t see them again.”