MANTOLOKING, N.J. — A young female harbor seal was rescued from a beach in Mantoloking on Monday after she was found underweight and injured, marking the first seal rescue of the season.
The approximately two-year-old seal was discovered with swelling in her left rear flipper, abrasions on her right rear flipper, and an injured left eye, according to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC). Weighing 80 pounds at the time of her rescue, she was transported to MMSC for medical treatment and supportive care.
Upon arrival, the seal received fluids and wound care. The center’s veterinarian conducted a full medical examination, including bloodwork, and began administering oral medications and antibiotic eye drops to prevent infections.
“She is currently being assist-fed by the Stranding Technicians and is resting comfortably in Pen 1 of the Pool House,” MMSC said in a statement on Monday.
The seal, born in the spring of 2023, is expected to remain under the care of MMSC staff until her condition stabilizes and she can be released back into the wild.
The first seal rescue of the season highlights ongoing efforts to protect marine mammals along New Jersey’s coastline.