Fundraising for rescue centres for seal pups

FUNDRAISING has been launched to provide two rescue centres for seal pups born in the Tees Estuary and help investigate the cause of “unprecedented” mortality rates.

- By NAOMI CORRIGAN

A seal pup pictured at Greatham Creek

The Teesmouth Seal Rescue and Coastal Conservation Centre at South Gare, Redcar, is raising funds to renovate its rehabilitation facility.

The Teesmouth Seal Conservation Trust (TSCT) says it would provide improvements including hospital pens, outdoor pools, veterinary and hygiene facilities and an education centre.

Meanwhile, conservation group Tara Seal Research is also seeking help as it continues to probe the cause of the deaths of common baby seals seen in 2024 and 2025.

As reported, a study by the team states that 19 of the 21 pups they counted this summer have stranded on the shores along the Teesside coast, either dead or starving, with another two further north.

Many of the pups were suffering from a condition known as mouth rot, which the study states could be linked to chemicals or pollution.

In a stark warning, seal biologist Dr Sue Wilson warned they expect to see the same death rates again next year.