Wildlife centre staff overwhelmed by response to RSPCA seal crisis
Donations pouring in to help orphaned seal pups
Hardworking staff and volunteers at the RSPCA’s East Winch Wildlife Centre have been overwhelmed by public generosity as donations pour in following the rescue of orphaned seal pups.
A large number of the pups were separated from their mothers by the recent tidal surge along the Norfolk coats, which swept many of the young seals out to sea before they could even swim properly.
The wildlife centre, near King’s Lynn, is currently caring for nearly 100 seals. Some have been transferred to other RSPCA wildlife centres in Cheshire and Somerset, since they were washed up last week along the Norfolk coast.
Staff at East Winch Wildlife Centre have been inundated with donationssince the RSPCA launched a crisis appeal this week, to meet the costs of the seal pups’ five month rehabilitation.
More than £25,000 has been raised already to meet the costs of feeding the hungry seal pups, at a cost of £22 each week for every seal.
Alison Charles, East Winch Wildlife Centre manager, said: “We have been absolutely amazed at the generosity of the public, many of who seem to be really moved by the plight of these seal pups.
“The rehabilitation for these poor pups is going to be a marathon, not a sprint, and there are significant costs involved to give them all the special care and attention they need.
“The amount of money already donated by members of the public is absolutely staggering, but we’ve even had lots of practical donations.
“One lady came all the way from Northampton with a new fridge, bowls and beakers, which we use for feeding the seals.
“Another gentleman arrived with some fresh herring and a £20 donation. We’ve even had a local care home carrying out a collection for us, and offering their help as a drop off point for other donations.
“Incredible gestures of kindness like this, no matter how large or small, have been so encouraging for the team here who are absolutely working their socks off.
“I would like to say a huge thank you to every single person who has donated.”
You can donate £3 to the RSPCA’s seal crisis appeal now by texting SEAL to 78866. (Texts cost £3 + one standard network rate)
Anyone who wishes to donate more can do so by calling our 24 hour donation line on 0300 123 8181.
Donations can also be made at www.rspca.org.uk/sealappeal
The centre no longer needs any more fridges after two kind donations from members of the public.
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