The Scottish SPCA have rescued a rare black seal from the beach in Eyemouth.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity responded to a call from a member of the public about the pup on December 17 and took her to their National Wildlife Centre in Fishcross.

Despite the female seal showing no obvious signs of injury the Scottish SPCA took her into their care as she was dehydrated and on an area of the beach busy with dog walkers and people.

National Wildlife Centre manager, Colin Seddon, said, “We tend to get several black seal pups each year which are far less common than lighter grey colours.

“What is unusual is that she is female. Usually the darker the seal the more likely it is to be male. She is the first black female I can remember coming into our care."

All of the seal pups that are brought to the Scottish SPCA are being given Harry Potter themed names and this one has been named Narcissa.

“Narcissa is doing well, she is now off tube feeds and is being assist fed whole fish and we hope to release her back into the wild soon.

“Grey seal pups which no longer have a white coat may still need our assistance if they are on a public beach and at risk, or have visible signs of injury, such as bleeding, crusty or damaged eyes, discharge from the nose, coughing or generally looking unwell.

“The public should contact our animal helpline and an operator will be able to assist.

“If the seal pup is not at risk and looks and acts healthy it should be left alone”

Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed wild animal should call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.