A YOUNG seal spotted in Belfast Harbour with a drink can stuck to its mouth has been rescued in Scotland.
The seal was initially spotted earlier this month, prompting fears it would struggle to survive.
The animal's teeth had pierced the can, making it stick to its lower jaw.
It is understood the seal would not have survived due to not being able to hunt and eat.
Searchers, including experts from Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry and Lagan Search and Rescue, were among those who looked for the seal.
It was spotted close to Harland and Wolff shipyard on Friday.
However, it swam to the west coast of Scotland and passers-by spotted it lying in a storm drain over the weekend.
It was rescued by officers from the Ministry of Defence Police, who help guard Clyde naval base at Faslane.
Military police were able to approach the seal and remove the Red Bull can from its lower jaw.
A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "MoD Police Clyde Marine Unit officers freed this animal in distress and would urge people to take extra care in how they dispose of their rubbish near any waterway."
