Another seal injured after getting caught in discarded rope

Gypsy the seal was found with rope net caught around her neck. Credit: David Vyse

Another seal is being nursed back to health in Norfolk after suffering serious injuries from litter discarded in the sea.

The young adult female - named Gypsy by RSPCA staff - was found with a rope net caught around her neck.

It was rescued on Sunday at Somerton by volunteers from the Friends of Horsey Seals and taken to the RSPCA’s East Winch Wildlife Centre.

Gypsy is being cared for at the RSPCA East Winch Wildlife Centre. Credit: RSPCA

The RSPCA said the seal was exhausted and had a severe wound around her neck caused by the rope. It weighed just 40kg and is thought to be one of last year’s grey seal pups.

Vets at the centre gave the seal antibiotics and removed the netting from. Its neck injury is around one inch deep.

The latest rescue comes just weeks after a seal named Sir David, who was found with a plastic ring around his neck, was released back into the wild.

  • If you see an animal you have concerns about please call the RSPCA's emergency line on 0300 1234 999.

  • Do not attempt to capture or handle an injured seal. For more information on what to do with injured wild animals, visit the RSPCA’s website.

  • Anyone who you would like to donate towards the cost of this seal and others at the centre can donate via https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/eastwinchseals