A baby seal was rescued in downtown New Haven, Connecticut, on February 18, 2025. The seal pup, estimated to be a few weeks old, is currently recovering at Mystic Aquarium after being found lethargic and dehydrated.
- Baby seal rescued in New Haven, Conn.
- Seal recovering at Mystic Aquarium.
- Found lethargic, dehydrated, and underweight.
- Monitoring before rescue due to sightings.
- Natural instincts led seal into the city.
- Hope to return seal to ocean soon.
The gray seal was discovered by police officers responding to reports of an injured animal around 2 p.m. Officers monitored the situation until a rescue crew from Mystic Aquarium arrived. This particular seal had been spotted several times in the days leading up to its rescue, including locations in Branford and outside a local restaurant.
Mystic Aquarium reported that the male seal weighs only 28 pounds; newborn gray seals typically weigh around 35 pounds. He is undergoing fluid therapy and has shown interest in fish but is not yet eating independently. The aquarium staff are optimistic about his recovery and eventual return to the ocean.
- Seal’s condition: lethargic and dehydrated.
- Estimated age: a few weeks old.
- Current weight: 28 pounds (underweight for his age).
The cause of the seal’s unusual journey into downtown New Haven may relate to natural instincts guiding him away from potential threats like bad weather or other seals. Experts note that while seals can sometimes be seen on land along Long Island Sound, it is rare for them to venture so far into urban areas.
This incident highlights the importance of monitoring wildlife and providing timely assistance when necessary. The hope remains that this young seal will regain strength and eventually return safely to its natural habitat.
