Seal spotted on riverbank near Tadcaster Bridge for first time in more than three years
A seal has been photographed on the riverbank near Tadcaster Bridge today - after reportedly swimming more than 50 miles from Hull.
The seal is believed to have made its way up river and is tagged on its flipper.
Photographs of the seal were posted on the Tadcaster Citizen Facebook page.
Users revealed that the seal had previously been rescued and then released at sea, before finding its way up river.
A rescue centre has been informed of the seal's journey by an eyewitness.
According to one witness, the rescue centre urged the public to leave the seal alone and not approach it.
One witness - speaking to the Yorkshire Post - said: "A volunteer for a marine rescue group asked if I had seen a seal and we spotted it on the bank.
"It was tired but very much alive.
"It has been tagged and she had arranged a resume for it.
"It is important for people not to disturb it so that it can test."
Tadcaster Community Action Group also added: "The seal has arrived back in Tadcaster.
"Please do not approach, the RSPCA are aware."
Many local residents were shocked at the unusual sighting.
One said: "Fabulous!"
Another added: "The river is actually a great place for seals, plenty of fish.
"Just need to keep an eye for issues with any fishing gear and keep the dogs away."
Seals spend most of their lives in the water but come ashore to mate, give birth, molt or escape from predators.
They feed mainly on fish.