Rescue seal dies after more than 50 years at Cornish Seal Sanctuary
Sheba had been a resident of the Cornish Seal Sanctuary since the 1970s
Last updated 13th Nov 2025
A seal who lived at a Cornish wildlife sanctuary for more than 50 years has died.
Often referred to as "the Queen of the Sanctuary," Sheba had been a resident of the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek since the 1970s.
At 51 years old, Sheba was one of the oldest grey seals ever recorded in captivity.
Sheba first arrived at the sanctuary after she was rescued as an injured pup an due to her young age and poor health, she could not return to the wild.
Tamara Cooper, Curator at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary said:
“Sheba was an incredible character and such a big part of our family here
“She taught so many of us about patience, compassion, and the value of long-term care for rescued animals.
"It’s hard to imagine the Sanctuary without her.”
The Cornish Seal Sanctuary said Sheba helped educate multiple generations of visitors about marine life and the importance of marine conservation.
The sanctuary say they plans to host a special tribute to celebrate Sheba’s life in the coming weeks.
“Sheba will always be the Queen of the Sanctuary,” Tamara added. “Her story will continue to inspire everything we do.”