Rescued seal pups released back into the wild

Four seals have been released back into the wild after being cared for by the RSPCA.

The seals, named named Mini Milk, Calippo, Nobbly Bobbly, and Cornetto, were rescued from beaches across the South West and Wales in December last year.

The seals, found underweight and in poor health, received care at the RSPCA West Hatch Wildlife Centre in Taunton before being released at Combe Martin Beach.

RSPCA photographer Emma Jacobs, who documented their recovery, described their release as "amazing."

RSPCA photographer Emma Jacobs documented the seals' recovery

She said, "Our precious wildlife desperately needs our help and support.

"It's been amazing to follow the seals as they gained strength ready for release.

"So many species of native wildlife are sadly threatened, and many have seen reductions in numbers, so it's important for all of us to do everything we can to support wildlife to make sure every kind thrives in its natural environment."

Staff at RSPCA West Hatch provided round-the-clock care, feeding the seal pups specially prepared meals and monitoring their progress.

Once strong enough to survive in the wild, they were released at the beach during a high tide.

Their recovery journeys were documented in The Seal Diaries, an RSPCA online project aimed at inspiring young people to care about wildlife conservation.

RSPCA West Hatch spends approximately £1,400 a week during seal season, from September to March, on food and veterinary care.

The charity says people should observe seals from a distance, keep dogs away from colonies, and report any injured or abandoned animals to their 24-hour hotline by calling 0300 1234 999..