Olaf
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www.animalaction.co.uk
them up and swallowing the pieces. After
two months, he was moved into an
outdoor pool and gained more weight.
He gradually became less friendly towards
the staff too, which was a positive thing,
important for his return to the wild.
Meeting Elsa
In late September Olaf was placed into
the deep-water pool along with another
common seal, a female who staff had
called Elsa after the Queen in Frozen.
At first they were cautious of each other,
but after a few days they began getting
on well and enjoying the deep water and
extra space.
Richard recalls: "We couldn't
guarantee Olaf and Elsa would be
released together, as release depends
on weight, but it was good for both
of them to mix with their own species
as companions."
Ready to return
Weather and tide are important factors
when planning a seal release. The weather
can't be too rough, as this will be stressful
for the seals on their first day back at sea.
Releases must be done at high tide, so
seals can get into deep water straight
away to avoid contact with humans and
dogs on the beach.
Richard said: "It's always sad in a way
when they leave, but we're happy to say
that, after more than four months with
us, Olaf weighed a healthy 34kg and was
perfectly ready to be returned to the
wild, where he belongs."