Injured seal takes a breather at Littleport - but who is able to come to its rescue to treat it?

Resting place for distressed and injured seal photographed at Littleport today. But who will come to the rescue? (Image: Archant)

He said he reported it to the RSPCA at 7.45am on their hotline but they were unable to help.

“We own a small bed and breakfast business in Littleport (The Gatehouse) adjacent the Great River Ouse and overlooking the Boat Haven marina,” he explained.

“One of our guests noticed the seal on the back of a boat.

“The seal was clearly injured and had a large fish hook through its left eye which was bright red.

Peter Slee-Smith took the photo of the seal that ended up in a distressed state at Littleport. It is thought it has been injured by a hook (Image: Archant)

He said: “The RSPCA explained that they were unable to help with marine animals and referred me to the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR). The BDMLR were aware of previous sightings of the seal but showed no interest in investigating the matter further.

“They explained that unless the seal was accessible on a river bank, the seal would return to the water before being helped.

“The seal was clearly in distress or exhausted as neither dogs barking at it or large groups of onlookers caused it to move from its position on the boat.”

He added: “I wonder whether the RSPCA would have taken more interest in this distressed animal had it been a fluffy white kitten?

Peter Slee-Smith took the photo of the seal that ended up in a distressed state at Littleport. It is thought it has been injured by a hook (Image: Archant)

“While I understand the difficulties in attempting a rescue, it upsets me that nobody seems willing or able to help.”

He said the seal was still there later in the day.

Three days ago the Fish and Duck Marina at Popes Corner, Little Thetford, posted to Facebook their concern about the seal.

“We have been informed the seal that frequents our end of the Ouse is injured. It has a fishing lure embedded near to its eye,” they posted.

Peter Slee-Smith took the photo of the seal that ended up in a distressed state at Littleport. It is thought it has been injured by a hook (Image: Archant)

“Apparently, it has been seen in Ely today and also recently sited near our marina.

“It has been reported to the RSPCA by many people since Saturday when it happened. “If you do get any sightings please can you call British divers marine wildlife rescue on 01825765546.

“One of their officers was out looking for it today but obviously up our end of the river. They need to see its injuries and make a plan for its rescue.”

Peter Slee-Smith took the photo of the seal that ended up in a distressed state at Littleport. It is thought it has been injured by a hook (Image: Archant)

Peter Slee-Smith took the photo of the seal that ended up in a distressed state at Littleport. It is thought it has been injured by a hook (Image: Archant)

Peter Slee-Smith took the photo of the seal that ended up in a distressed state at Littleport. It is thought it has been injured by a hook (Image: Archant)

Peter Slee-Smith took the photo of the seal that ended up in a distressed state at Littleport. It is thought it has been injured by a hook (Image: Archant)