GSPCA to Release Last Two Rescued Seal Pups, Swish and Wide Awake, Back to the Wild
Submitted by Steve on 14:36, 2nd Aug, 2025 |
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Today was a momentous and emotional day for the GSPCA as the last two rescued grey seal pups, Swish and Wide Awake, were returned to the sea at Rocqaine Bay in Torteval following four months of intensive rehabilitation.
The pair were rescued earlier this year in a severely emaciated state, requiring round-the-clock care. Sadly, two other pups rescued around the same time—Fireworks and Dark Horse—tragically did not survive due to extensive health complications and extreme malnourishment.
Under the expert care of Geoff George, Head of Marine Mammals, and the dedicated GSPCA team, Swish and Wide Awake have made a remarkable recovery. Their release was carried out by Geoff George and GSPCA Manager Steve Byrne, along with other GSPCA team members who helped nurse the pups back to health.
Steve Byrne, GSPCA Manager, said: "This is always such an emotional moment and the weather and tide was perfect.”
“After months of care, it's incredible to see these amazing animals return to where they truly belong—wild and free in our beautiful Channel Island waters.”
“Every seal is special, and Swish and Wide Awake are no exception."
This release is particularly poignant, as these will be the final seals to be cared for in the GSPCA’s old rehabilitation facilities, which have now reached the end of their life. Temporary housing was created at the GSPCA base in St Andrews to ensure the seals received the best possible care during the transition.
With the release of Swish and Wide Awake, the GSPCA has now rehabilitated and released 45 grey seal pups over the last 14 years, a remarkable achievement for the island charity.
The seal release also marks a new chapter in the GSPCA’s journey, as it clears the way for demolition work to begin on the old catteries, dog grooming area, and laundry room—paving the way for the next stage of the charity’s Big Build. The project includes a new Wildlife Hospital with purpose-built seal facilities and much needed dog kennels.
The GSPCA continues to appeal for support and donations to help make the Big Build a reality and ensure animals like Swish and Wide Awake have the facilities they need to thrive during recovery.
“The Dolphin Discovery Trail treasure hunt app is now live until the end of August and to find all 62 dolphins download the Turfhunt app and use the code EADASD or zoom in on Guernsey and if you get all dolphins with a picture you will be entered into a prize draw with the current top prize an iwatch but additional prizes very welcome and we are looking for a sponsor for the app.”
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