FOUR grey seals have been released back into the wild off the coast of Pembrokeshire.

The cute pups were rescued separately across Wales over the last few months, and enjoyed round-the-clock care from the RSPCA to get them fit and healthy ready for their return to the sea.

The animals were also tagged, so if anyone spots them in the future their movements can be tracked by the RSPCA.

Animal collection officer, Ellie West, said: “This is the best part of being a member of the RSPCA inspectorate - seeing animals back into their natural habitat.

"I am grateful to Welsh Marine Life Rescue for their help in releasing these seals back into the sea.

“We do get a number of calls about abandoned seal pups and it’s great that we are able to rescue them, give them the care they need and get them back out into the sea.

"I would like to remind members of public to follow our advice about leaving wild animals alone for 24-hours before contacting us, as human presence may hinder rather than help.”

Over the winter months, the animal charity receives a number of calls from members of the public concerned about stranded seal pups.

However, not all lone seal pups have been abandoned.

RSPCA Cymru advises if you find a seal pup that looks fit and healthy, and doesn’t show any signs of distress, it is best to monitor it from a safe distance for 24 hours.

Do not touch seal pups - they can give a nasty bite - and keep dogs and other animals away from them.

If the mother does not return within 24 hours, or you think that the pup is sick or injured, you can call the RSPCA's 24-hour advice and cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.