An "exhausted, hungry, and dehydrated" grey seal pup was recently rescued from a beach in Jersey.
British Divers Marine Life Rescue Channel Islands (BDMLR CI) shared on Facebook that the young seal, found in Bonne Nuit Harbour, weighed the same as a newborn despite being three to four weeks old. Named Rocky, the pup was thought to have been separated from his mother before weaning, leaving him without essential fat reserves.
Initially, Rocky's condition was described as "bleak." However, he was taken to New Era Veterinary Hospital, where he received critical fluids and is now recovering well. BDMLR noted that while grey seals generally avoid humans, Rocky instinctively hauled himself onto the beach, where onlookers managed their pets and gave him space, allowing him to rest undisturbed.
Jersey has no seal rehabilitation facility, and the nearest option in Guernsey is temporarily closed for renovations. BDMLR has been working to secure a long-term placement for Rocky, although a recent plan fell through. Meanwhile, Rocky is reported to be thriving on a daily diet of blended mackerel soup, thanks to the BDMLR team.