Brigantine, NJ – A male Grey seal pup, estimated to be 2-3 weeks old and still covered in 80% of his birth coat, was discovered on February 15th on the North End of Brigantine Beach, near the dunes. This young seal’s situation highlights the challenges faced by marine life in adapting to their environment after weaning.
The pup likely struggled with independence post-weaning, a critical period as Grey seals are known to nurse for only about two weeks before becoming entirely self-reliant.
Initially weighing between 30-35lbs at birth and expected to triple this weight, the pup instead found himself reverting to his birth weight after a 300+ mile journey from his New England birthplace to New Jersey.
Upon arrival at the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, he weighed just 35.2lbs and was immediately given supportive care, including tube feeding with a specialized formula and electrolytes.