The mint and seal had become a familiar sight to seafarers in Plymouth and Cawsand Bay, Cornwall. But despite the efforts of experts to make her work again, she has become too dependent on the food that people give her and now she does not eat. RSPCA is currently caring for her at her headquarters in West Hatch, Somerset, but hopes to be able to release her back to the sea in Scotland after a period of detoxification, which will include being wary of people and reconnecting with others. seals. Jessica Collins, from Torpoint in Cornwall, funds crowdfunding for Spearmint’s treatment. She explained: “Mint is a wild seal that, without its own fault, has accustomed people. “Her interest in people grew when she was released as she was regularly fed by tourists. After multiple trips she found Cawsand Bay where a group of volunteers were able to better control the situation and keep people away. “We all hoped he would remember, but when he discovered Plymouth it became more difficult and the feeding started again and the bad habits remained. “More recently she started taking to the streets and becoming a real danger to herself and others.” Dan Jarvis, director of well-being and conservation at British Marine Life Rescue, told BBC Radio 4 today: “In the case of Spearmint here, the whole problem started when people started feeding her in nature, either from the pier or on excursions. by boat. last summer unfortunately. “Because she’s a pretty young seal, she was only a few months old then, that potentially changed her life for her behavior, because it made her quite accustomed to approaching people and interacting with them. “We’ve heard of people trying to throw her sandwiches, ice cream and donuts, for example, which of course are not normal things she would eat.” RSPCA staff say that in addition to refusing to eat, Spearmint also has pus coming from one of its ears. She has been given antibiotics and given injections every other day. A spokesman said: “Of course wild animals can find captivity, even for a short time, a battle, but our experienced team, which specializes in wildlife restoration, is doing everything it can to reduce stress for Spearmint and try to get her. be re-released as soon as possible “.
