Grey Seal Pup Rescued and Recovering at Marine Mammal Stranding Center
LONG BRANCH, NJ – A male Grey seal pup, recently harassed by beachgoers, is on the mend at the Marine Mammal Stranding Center. After being monitored by volunteers and showing signs of exhaustion and a possible respiratory infection, the pup was admitted for treatment.
“The seal’s behavior was observed on the beach by shifts of MMSC Stranding Volunteers for over 24 hours. Unfortunately people had been harassing this young seal as he tried to rest, so he became exhausted,” center said in a statement today.
The incident occurred on North Bath Avenue, Long Branch, where the seal’s distress was observed for more than a day. Upon arrival at the center, he received supportive care including tube feeding with a formula and electrolytes mixture, weighing in at 40.2lbs.
Remarkably, the seal has begun eating whole fish independently and is comfortably recuperating in the Annex Holding pen. This event marks a peak in the migration season, witnessing numerous young Grey seals in need due to injuries, illnesses, or malnutrition.
The Stranding Team emphasizes the critical role of community support in their rescue efforts. Donations to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center are encouraged to aid in the rehabilitation of these marine creatures, offering them a second chance at life in the wild.