A rescued seal is recovering in an animal sanctuary- after eating a plastic bag.
The seal, named after Queen legend Brian May, was rescued at just five-weeks-old after being found severely malnourished on a beach.
Brian had superficial wounds and was taken to the Cornish Seal Sanctuary by rescuers from the British Divers Marine Life Rescue group.
Staff at the sanctuary were shocked when Brian couldn’t eat – but he soon recovered after he passed a plastic bag.
Brian was rescued from a beach in north Cornwall on November 2.
Tamara Cooper, from the sanctuary, said “We were astounded when we discovered what Brian May had passed.
“This is yet another example of how detrimental plastic pollution is on our oceans and its inhabitants.
“Brian May was extremely lucky to come to us, to receive the vital care he needed.
“He is currently recovering well in the hospital, gaining weight and learning to eat for himself, and thankfully he is now off treatment.
“Seals are extremely curious and playful creatures; they won’t understand these foreign objects.
“It is extremely sad to think of all the seals out there that are at risk of the increasing threat of plastic pollution.”
Staff at the sanctuary said that rubbish in the ocean affects seals, and that research shows that they ingest plastic via fish.
The sanctuary has had 28 casualties of the sea so far this season; the team have chosen an 80’s theme for names.
Brian May will be in good company, with his fellow pool mates Freddie Mercury and Roger Taylor.
By John Bett
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