Scotland is home to a large share of the world’s seals. However, specialist seal rescue in the Highlands was once a long way off. Injured pups had to travel to Edinburgh, changing vehicles again and again over many hours. Sadly, some of the sickest pups did not survive the journey.
Founder Clare Boardman spent 25 years as a veterinary nurse and worked as a ranger in Kruger National Park. The hospital opened its doors in 2022, and its first seal arrived a week later. Today, eight core volunteers and 26 volunteer assessors help it run.
The team covers a vast area, from Ullapool on the North West coast, around the northern coast and down to Fraserburgh on the North East coast. Pups also arrive from the Western Isles, North & South Uist and Orkney. Because of the distances, partners matter. A small holding facility on the Isle of Lewis cares for pups until they are stable. Then, the next day, they cross by ferry to Caithness.
Leading Education and Research
The team also gives talks in schools, care homes and befriending groups, and work with Police Scotland. Their aim is to educate people to keep away from seal pups, ensuring mother seals don’t abandon them.
They are also involved in research projects with organisations like the Royal Veterinary College. A Plymouth University student is also looking at the effects of oil spills.
One rescued seal arrived in poor condition, then gave birth at the hospital. Her pup is now expected to be the first rehabilitated seal in Scotland released with a satellite tag. The team will follow the pup after release, gathering information about what happens to rescued seals in the wild.
Feeding the seal pups
Feeding the pups is the hospital’s main cost, and food prices are going up. The John Good Group grant will help buy the fish the pups need while they recover. As a result, the team can keep seal rescue in the Highlands going.
“Thank you so much for shortlisting us. We are truly honoured and deeply moved by this recognition. As a small, volunteer-run sanctuary in the far north of Scotland, every gesture of support means the world to us. Since opening our doors in 2022, we’ve rescued and rehabilitated 130 seal pups and released 121 back into the wild. Your support would help us continue our vital work. Together, we can make a lasting impact on these incredible marine mammals and the health of our coastal ecosystems.”
Latest Project Updates
September 2026
Grants for Good Finalist
Caithness Seal Rehab & Release has become one of the top five finalists in the latest Grants for Good round, funded by the John Good Group, and will receive a grant between £2000 and £5000 after employees at the John Good Group have voted on their favourite causes.