Brave seal pup returns to the wild – thanks to you!

Wednesday, 09 April 2025

We’re thrilled to share that Leaf Cutter, a brave grey seal pup rescued and rehabilitated at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, has been released back into the wild after life-saving surgery, all made possible by your incredible support.

Leaf Cutter has made a triumphant return to the wild after receiving life-saving care here at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, and it’s all thanks to the generosity of our incredible supporters who funded her critical operation.

Leaf Cutter was rescued earlier this year after being found severely malnourished and suffering from a serious flipper injury that needed intricate veterinary attention. Our dedicated Animal Care team provided round-the-clock care, and with amazing support from the public, we were able to raise the funds needed for her vital surgery.

After months of rehabilitation, where she regained her strength and learned all the skills she’d need to thrive in the wild, Leaf Cutter was ready to head back to the ocean, and we couldn’t be happier to see her start this new chapter, alongside four other rehabilitated pups.

“We are absolutely thrilled to see Leaf Cutter return to her natural habitat alongside four other rehabilitated pups,” said Tamara Cooper, Curator at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary.

“Her journey has been a testament to the power of community support and the vital role our sanctuary plays in giving these animals a second chance. We are so grateful to the amazing team at RoseVean Veterinary Practice who played a huge part in Leaf Cutter’s successful rehabilitation and subsequent release”

The journey home

Thanks to the GPS tracker we fitted to Leaf Cutter before her release, our supporters can now follow her journey as she explores life back in the wild, a truly special way to stay connected to her story.

At the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, we continue to rescue, rehabilitate, and release vulnerable seal pups along the Cornish coastline. As a local charity that relies on visitors and donations to keep doing what we do, your support remains absolutely vital in making sure pups like Leaf Cutter get the care they need, and the second chance they deserve.