And then we were brought a rather hefty visitor by ACO Derek Hampson, in the form of an adult grey seal who was more than double/triple the size of the pups we currently have in our care. As we could not bring him inside the hospital, as we usually do for any new admissions, the vets had to use their torches to assess him from a distance. It was agreed, following some lengthy discussions with colleagues at East Winch, that he should be transferred down to East Winch Wildlife Centre, in Norfolk, where they have specialised accommodation for such large seals. In order to minimise stress it was agreed that he should stay on the trailer for the night; he was provided with a large tray of water and some food (a few tasty herrings) - to our relief he soon started drinking.
The next morning he was transferred to East Winch and given the name Dumbledore. It was not only an incredible experience to see such a fantastic animal up close but also to see how everyone pulled together to help save this lost seal. Hopefully he will be returned home soon.
Into the new year it is mainly hedgehogs and swans that make up the majority of our patients, however we have admitted a single robin and some common buzzards. Although fairly quiet in the hospital all staff are now busy preparing for what we anticipate to be another busy spring /summer season.
By Michelle Bite
Sponsors of Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre and Cattery
