Please help us support the Hillswick Wildlife Sanctuary in giving Smudge the life he deserves!

During a recent trip to Shetland, we were lucky enough to visit the Hillswick Wildlife Sanctuary—a haven for injured, orphaned, and vulnerable marine wildlife. It was there that we met Smudge, a little seal with a big personality and an even bigger story.

Smudge’s Journey

Smudge was rescued on November 9th, 2024, from West Voe beach in Sumburgh, Shetland, where he was found struggling in the shallows. Fully moulted but unable to thrive, Smudge was taken in by the dedicated team at Hillswick.

What followed was one of the most challenging — and heartwarming — rescue stories the sanctuary has ever faced.

It quickly became apparent to staff that Smudge has learning difficulties and is dysmorphic in appearance. He has wonky rear flippers and a humped back that make it harder for him to move like other seals.

Initially poor Smudge struggled to eat, refusing to even enter water or swallow fish on his own. But with patience, creativity, and love, the sanctuary staff hand-fed him specially selected small fish. They sought advice from other sanctuaries and used a long-handled litter picker to teach him how to eat properly — and it worked!

The staff have had the pleasure of watching him grow and make real progress, even managing to swallow a whole herring (tail-first!)

Why We Need Your Help

Smudge has come so far, but he’s not out of the woods yet. The team at Hillswick are still concerned about his ability to survive in the wild on his own. He may need ongoing care, special accommodations, or a permanent home at a sanctuary that can keep him long-term.

Your donation will go directly towards the ongoing work of the Hillswick Wildlife Sanctuary, which rescues and rehabilitates countless marine animals each year but especially to Smudge who they are currently caring for with such love and dedication.

Every Little Bit Helps

Whether it’s £1 or £5, every donation makes a difference for Smudge and animals like him. If you can’t donate, you can still help by sharing Smudge’s story with your friends and family.

Let’s help give Smudge the love and support he needs — and show the team at Hillswick they’re not alone in this mission.

Thank you,

Irene Easton, Barbara Wilkie and Joanne Bruce

#SaveSmudge #HillswickHeroes #SealRescue