Stubborn Seal Celebrates 50th Birthday, Marking a Milestone

Sheba, a grey seal known for her strong personality, recently celebrated her 50th birthday, making her Britain’s oldest-known seal. This milestone highlights not just her longevity but also the special care she has received over the years.

This "stubborn" grey seal was discovered injured on a Cornish beach in 1974. Local resident Ken Jones found her with a severe head injury and an eye infection. He and his wife, Mary, nursed Sheba back to health in their backyard pool.

Due to her health issues, including vision loss, Sheba could not return to the ocean. She has outlasted all other animals at the rehabilitation center. The Jones' center eventually relocated to Gweek village, where they now care for approximately 70 seal pups every year.

"Reaching 50 is a significant milestone, not only for Sheba but for all of us who have been part of her journey," remarked Tamara Cooper, curator at the facility in southwest England. Seals in the wild typically live 25 to 30 years; females can reach 40 in captivity, while males average around 30 years.

In 2010, Spook, a male grey seal born at the New York Aquarium in 1965, was considered the oldest seal until he passed away a few weeks shy of his 45th birthday. It is believed that Sheba currently holds the record as the oldest seal in captivity.

Despite her popularity among the public and her keepers, Sheba remains uncooperative. She hesitates to learn new tricks, refusing to roll over for necessary inspections. When it comes to administering eye drops, she sometimes accepts the medicine, but often walks away and splashes back into the water.

"She's a bit stubborn," shared Heather Green, an animal care specialist. "She grew accustomed to being fed without effort. Now, she protests slightly when we ask her to perform any behavior. It's at her own pace, and she'll let you know her readiness."

Sheba's birthday party included a brass band and singing from visitors and staff. The guest of honor received a purple, triple-layer ice cake adorned with "50" and hearts. She joyfully munched on the small fish propped on top.

"She's not fussy; she'll eat any fish," Green added.