THE Scottish SPCA is currently caring for their first rescued grey seal pup of this season at their National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity received a call from a concerned member of the public who spotted it looking distressed in Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire, on Tuesday, November 7.

Colin Seddon, centre manager, said: “It’s very unusual that we’ve not had any grey seal pups come into care this year until now. Usually we start receiving calls about injured or distressed seal pups in October.

“Every year we can expect to care for over 100 grey seal pups of various ages. This year our first seal is called Snow White, and any seals that come in from this point on will carry Disney, Pixar or Dreamworks names too.

“Snow White seems quite bright and healthy, with a few minor injuries including a slight infection to her mouth. She’s around 4 -5 weeks old and has moulted, but is quite underweight at only 11.9kg.

“When she arrived at our National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross she was dehydrated and her temperature was a little low. We’ll make sure she gets plenty of hydration before starting her on some fish soup, before moving on to solids.”

Colin said seal pups can be quite dangerous animals and he wouldn't advise people to get too close; they carry a number of pathogens that can result in seal finger, salmonella and more.

He added: “Anyone concerned about a seal pup, including any who appear injured, are found on public beaches or are spotted in unusual places such as non-breeding areas, should give us a call before approaching them.

“We are often contacted about seal pups that are healthy but have been abandoned by their mothers because someone has disturbed them.”

Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed wild animal should call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.