Sheba the Seal Celebrates 50th Birthday at Cornish Sanctuary

Sheba, rescued in 1974 with severe injuries, is believed to be the oldest grey seal in captivity.

Sheba was found with a head injury and severe eye infection on a Cornwall beach in 1974 and has lived at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary since.
Ken Jones and his wife, Mary, initially rehabilitated Sheba at their home before establishing the sanctuary in Gweek in 1975.
Sheba's longevity is attributed to advancements in veterinary care and the specialized attention she has received over the years.
Most grey seals live 25-30 years in the wild, while females in captivity can live up to 40 years; Sheba has surpassed these expectations.
The sanctuary celebrated her milestone with a special event, including an ice cake topped with mackerel and herring, and invited the public to join the festivities.