'Dumbledore' seal found in farmer's field dies

The seal was named Dumbledore by RSPCA staff who cared for him. Credit: PA

He mysteriously appeared in a field in Merseyside more than 20 miles from the coast in December, but sadly the young grey seal named Dumbledore has died.

The RSPCA had been caring for him ever since he was taken into their care 26 days ago suffering from pneumonia.

This left Dumbledore with no appetite and despite reports he had managed to eat his first meal since being rescued over New Year, he could not be nursed back to health.

The seal was rescued on December 22 after being found in a field in Newton-le-Willows. Credit: PA

In a statement the RSPCA said: "Sadly, despite all the highly-skilled care and attention he received from staff at RSPCA East Winch, Dumbledore the seal has died.

"Staff at the centre worked tirelessly to make sure Dumbledore was comfortable and to treat him for his ailments. He was found to be suffering from pneumonia and was listless with no appetite.

"While X rays showed he had no trauma from injuries and his severe pneumonia was being treated with antibiotic injections every day his appetite never fully returned."

Dumbledore managed to eat his first meal over New Year but his appetite never fully returned. Credit: PA

The RSPCA added it was extremely proud of all its staff that worked so hard to care for Dumbledore and tried to help him on the road to recovery.

"Sadly wildlife rehabitation is particularly challenging and, of all the species the wildlife centres take in, seals are one of the more difficult to rehabilitate."

The centre has around 40 sick seals on site, all of which have been given names related to the Harry Potter books.