This is the adorable moment a young seal with a huge plastic fishing lure caught in its mouth was released back into the sea after a brave rescue.
The animal was seen struggling in Oban, Argyll and Bute, with the big pink piece of equipment trapped around its mouth and whiskers.
Staff from the British Divers Marine Life Rescue charity were called by locals after the animal was seen and raced to the scene.
A search was launched for the seal which was taken to the vets for an operation to remove the lure that was hanging out of the side of its mouth.
Staff searched for hours to find the aqua animal before medics managed to take it to the vet.
An operation removed the lure and the seal was given rest and antibiotics.
A video posted on the charity's Facebook page shows the animal being released from a cage and flopping happily towards the water.
It swims off into the distance after the successful rescue.
The organisation posted on social media yesterday: "After a day of looking out for this seal yesterday, we received a call via our hotline this morning regarding this common seal in Oban with a large fishing lure stuck in its mouth.
"After several hours, our medics managed to rescue the seal and take it to the vets where the fishing lure was removed under light sedation.
"After some rest and antibiotics, the seal was released again this afternoon!"
They added: "The seal is weaned and therefore feeding for itself. Mum's are only around a few weeks when seals are born. This is a common seal so at least a few months old, possibly more.
Charity workers were praised by locals online for the rescue and getting the animal back into the water.
Jackie Watson wrote: "Great news he was caught and that horrible lure removed!"
Hazel McHardie wrote: "Thank you,poor thing must have been in so much pain and probably unable to eat."
