Rathlin seal with tube around its neck is 'healthy and alert'

Environment officials say they are monitoring a Rathlin Island seal that got its head stuck in a black tube.

Marine mammal experts at the Exploris Aquarium were notified about the seal's plight in August.

But they believe the tubing may have been around the animal's neck for months.

Staff are wary of attempting to free the seal and, since it looks “healthy and alert”, are content to keep it under observation.

A Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs spokesperson said: “The Department has been visiting Rathlin Island on a fortnightly basis to monitor the seal’s condition and also liaising closely with Exploris on potential intervention options when the situation allows.

“Exploris have assessed the seal as being healthy and alert which, combined with the presence of other seals in close proximity, makes any intervention measures difficult to implement without causing a wider disturbance to the colony which could result in injuries.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely with partners to assess the seal’s condition. In the meantime, the Department urges members of the public to notify us and partners such as Exploris of any further sightings.”