Orphaned seals

We're feeling smiles better! Orphaned seals relax as they are treated to fresh towels and fish suppers

Last updated at 7:33 AM on 24th September 2010

If these baby seals look like they're smiling at each other, there's good reason for them to be happy.

For they have enjoyed a heart-warming turnaround in fortune. Orphaned and stranded on a beach in the Wash, they seemed to have little prospect of survival.

Snuggle-time: The two orphaned seals appear to be smiling at one another as they warm up in their blankets at the Eastwinch Wildlife Centre near King's Lynn, Norfolk

But they were spotted and taken to the Eastwinch Wildlife Centre near King's Lynn, Norfolk, where staff gave them a fish supper and wrapped them in towels. 

When the pups are strong enough, they will be returned to their natural habitat. 

 

The wildlife centre has been particularly busy recently after a spate of unexplained seal deaths, leaving an unusually high number of orphans.

As a result, the centre is desperately short of towels and is asking the public for help.

Details of how to donate are on the RSPCA website.

Under wraps: The RSPCA is appealing for donations of towels from the public after a massive rise in young pups being found abandoned on the shores of the UK

Love and affection: The orphaned seals are being cared for by Jo Brooks (left) and Louise Ellis at the RSPCA sanctuary