Flubber goes back to sea

Flubber, a rare hooded seal found in a distressed condition off the Wexford coast two months ago, was freed in the Atlantic Ocean tonight after being nursed back to health.

The amphibian was cared for at the Irish Seal Sanctuary, and the naval service was called in for the release.

The seal was taken from Galway in a special tank by the ship LE Niamh and let go five hours later nearly 150 miles from the coastline.

A spokesman said Flubber ‘‘swam away contentedly’’.

The animal had been deliberately left unfed for two days to ensure it would immediately resume fishing activities.