Seal pup needs vital flipper surgery, say experts

A rescued seal pup needs a major flipper operation so she can eventually be released back into the wild, experts say.

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary said Leaf Cutter was recently rescued from Carbis Bay by British Divers Marine Life Rescue.

She was found malnourished and had a wound on her right front flipper.

After initial treatment, an X-ray revealed a fractured metacarpal, which needed surgery. The sanctuary said without the operation the grey seal would not be able to swim or survive in the wild.

Tamara Cooper, from the sanctuary, said it was an intricate operation to remove only the affected bone.

"We have everything crossed for little Leaf Cutter," she said.

"We are confident for a positive outcome and hope to see Leaf Cutter on the road to recovery very soon."

The sanctuary aims to raise £1,000 for the operation and Leaf Cutter's rehabilitation.

Jessica Holgate, trainee animal care specialist at the sanctuary, said: "There's certainly no issues with her appetite, she's a strong little pup, she's got a big personality and she's really funny.

"She loves her food and she sometimes chases you around when you're trying to clean, so she's a real sweetheart."

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