A YOUNG seal is receiving expert care and recovering after being found collapsed and bleeding on a North Yorkshire beach.

The RSPCA were contacted by a concerned man who had spotted the lone common seal pup collapsed on the beach at Fylingthorpe, near Whitby, on Tuesday.

RSPCA inspector Claire Little said: “The caller had told us the seal was collapsed with pus coming from his ears and blood from the mouth.

“Unfortunately, it seems the pup, who we believe to be around four or five-months-old, was injured and needed some veterinary treatment.

“He was out of the water but seemed lively and was a good weight. However, as there were injuries I took him to a nearby vet for a check-up and he was given some antibiotics.”

The seal was moved to SeaLife Centre in Scarborough for the specialist care he needs.

Wallace, as he has been nicknamed, is being treated for a deep wound inside his mouth and an ear infection.

The RSPCA is often called out by members of the public concerned about a seal or a pup they spot on the banks of a river or on the beach.

The charity’s advice is not to approach and make sure it is in need of help before alerting them.

Insp Little added: “Too many seal pups are taken into captivity because people mistakenly think they have been abandoned.

“If the individual looks fit and healthy and shows no signs of distress, please don’t touch them. An underweight pup will look thin and sleek with a visible neck whereas healthy pups will look big and fat, with no visible neck.”

If you find a seal that may be sick or injured, call the charity’s 24-hour advice and cruelty line 0300-1234-999.